ALSO IN THIS ISSUE BILLINGS LOGAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT • LAS CRUCES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT CHERRY CAPITAL AIRPORT SEPT 2025 VOL 12 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE NORTHERN MICHIGAN’S AVIATION GATEWAY
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Karen Surca Editor in Chief, Business View Publications I am always eager to bring you our fall edition of Aviation View. Autumn already marks the feeling of new beginnings with the change of season from warm days to the beauty of fall leaves falling at our feet. Airports are also setting their GPS in the direction of a new season. With airport improvements plans taking flight and aviation numbers souring higher, the aviation hubs we were privileged to profile are landing impressive performance numbers. Although the economy may be a little turbulent, this has not thrown these airports off course. Putting the passengers firmly in the driver’s seat and meeting aviation demand have positioned them to new aviation heights. Airport directors have ramped up their efforts to ensure that passengers and flight crews are met with a welcoming and efficient landing every time. This has propelled airport officials to look into the best ways to provide the best amenities and services upon arrival. With the mechanisms in place to propel these airports forward all that is left is meeting passengers with a welcoming smile every time. Business View Aviation sat down with Billings Logan International Airport, Cherry Capital Airport, Craig Field Airport , Elko Regional Airport, Evansville Regional Airport, Florence Regional Airport, Four Corners Regional Airport , Gary/Chicago International Airport, Las Cruces International Airport, Morgantown Municipal Airport and Yakima Air Terminal-McAllister Field. After interviewing each airport’s Airport Director we learned what is needed to keep flying seamlessly through the third quarter of 2025 and beyond. With every issue of Business View Aviation my hope is that you gain a little more perspective into what it takes to keep each of our airports across the continent ahead of the curve while always putting their passengers and the flying public first. Email for all inquiries: info@businessviewmagazine.com 2422 Palm Ridge Road, Suite 820 Sanibel FL, 33957 239.220.5554 CONTACT US Editor in Chief Karen Surca Director of Aviation & Research Paul Payne Research & Sales Director Thomas Hiley Contributing Writers Brett Anningson Andrew Macfarlane Al Krulick Vice President of Production Jared Ali Digital Strategist Jon Bartlow Art Director Renée Yearwood COO Matthew Mitchell CGO Alexander Wynne-Jones Executive Publisher / CEO Marcus VandenBrink EDITOR’S NOTES Dear Readers, WWW.BUSINESSVIEWMAGAZINE.COM 2 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03 13 BILLINGS LOGAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT An Aviation Gem at the Base of the Rimrock Mountains 23 CHERRY CAPITAL AIRPORT Northern Michigan’s Aviation Gateway 33 CRAIG FIELD AIRPORT An Airport Diamond in the Rough 43 ELKO REGIONAL AIRPORT A Small but Mighty Airport in One of the Largest Counties in the Country COVER CHERRY CAPITAL AIRPORT 2 EDITOR’S NOTES 5 OPENING LINES AVIATION VIEW ELKO REGIONAL AIRPORT 43 3 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
53 EVANSVILLE REGIONAL AIRPORT Flying High 63 FLORENCE REGIONAL AIRPORT A Friendly Landing Every Time 73 FOUR CORNERS REGIONAL AIRPORT Expertly Landing Commercial Service With a View to Economic Development Taking off 83 GARY/CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT A Nod to Resuming Commercial Airline Routes The articles in this publication are for information purposes only. Business View Publishing assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed, or incomplete information, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon. The information contained about each individual or organization has been provided by such individual or organization without verification by us. The opinion expressed in each article is that of its author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Business View Publishing. FOUR CORNERS REGIONAL AIRPORT 73 93 LAS CRUCES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Plans to Soar Beyond Its Small-Town Status 103 MORGANTOWN MUNICIPAL AIRPORT Full Speed Ahead 113 YAKIMA AIR TERMINAL-MCALLISTER FIELD Clear Skies Ahead
BLADE HIGHLIGHTS FUTURE OF AIR MOBILITY AT NBAABACE WITH EXPANDED FLIGHT SERVICE Source: www.nbaa.org, News Editor, First Published October 6th, 2025 The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) today announced a renewed partnership with Blade Urban Air Mobility, Inc. (BLADE), now a division of Joby Aviation, Inc. (NYSE: JOBY), to provide scheduled flights to attendees of the 2025 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), Oct. 14-16 in Las Vegas. Building on the previous years of sold-out success at NBAA-BACE, BLADE will offer scheduled by-the-seat transportation between the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) and the NBAA-BACE Aircraft Connection at Henderson Executive Airport (HND). Flights will accommodate up to seven passengers and allow attendees to experience the benefits of urban air mobility, coinciding with the recent acquisition of BLADE’s passenger business by Joby Aviation, Inc., a leader in the electric-powered air mobility space. “We are pleased to once again partner with BLADE to provide fast and convenient flights at NBAA-BACE,” said Opening Lines 5 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “BLADE pioneered the urban, by-the-seat vertical transportation model, which will be an essential component of the future of advanced air mobility.” “We are excited to build on our long-standing partnership with the NBAA,” said BLADE CEO Rob Wiesenthal. “Our service between the Las Vegas Convention Center and Henderson Airport highlights the value of vertical transportation by providing attendees with a fast, reliable alternative to ground congestion. “NBAA attendees will not only enjoy BLADE’s urban air mobility services today using conventional rotorcraft but will also see the quiet and emission-free future with Joby’s static display of its next-generation aircraft,” he added. Joby representatives will be available at the BLADE check-in area to share plans for introducing electric air taxis into BLADE’s network. NBAA attendees can learn more about Joby’s efforts to deliver scalable, sustainable air mobility in the near future. 6 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
Source: www.nbaa.org, News Editor, First Published October 6th, 2025 The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) applauds the publication of guidance on the recent trade agreement between the United States and the European Union (EU), including a return to zero tariffs on aerospace products imported from and exported to the EU. Earlier this year, the administration levied a 10% tariff on most aircraft and parts imported into the U.S. from the EU. These tariffs no longer apply to aircraft and aircraft parts traded between the U.S. and EU, retroactive to Sept. 1, 2025. The guidance comes after a trade deal announced in late July between the two countries, and generally follows a similar zero-tariff policy for aircraft and parts with the United Kingdom published in June and, separately, with Japan, published in early September. NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen said,“Last year, U.S. civil aviation built a $104 billion trade surplus, leading all other manufacturing trade sectors, and has been an export leader since 1979, when the Agreement on Trade in Civil Aircraft established a zero-tariff level playing field with dozens of other countries. “NBAA commends the administration for returning to a reciprocal zero tariff agreement with the EU for aircraft and parts,” Bolen continued. “This new policy and accompanying guidance will allow for further innovation in the aerospace industry, enable the trade surplus to grow and help the sector continue to make significant contributions to the U.S. economy and job growth.” NBAA urges the administration to return to a similar zero-for-zero tariff agreement on aircraft and aircraft parts in future bilateral trade deals. NBAA APPLAUDS GUIDANCE ON TRADE AGREEMENT WITH THE EU ON AEROSPACE PRODUCTS OPENING LINES 7 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
8 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
Source: www.nbaa.org, Dan Hubbard, First Published October 6th, 2025 The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) has provided the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) with feedback on proposed drone regulations, stating any rule must ensure that safety is the highest priority. The FAA’s portion of the proposed rule would allow certain low altitude, beyond visual line of site (BVLOS) missions by unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) without waivers or exemptions and would also create operating rules for UAS package delivery, agriculture, surveying, public safety and flight testing for compensation or hire. The provisions were outlined in a recently published notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). “NBAA has a unique interest in this NPRM, as many of our members who have operated manned aircraft for decades are now adding UAS to their mission planning,” said Heidi Williams, NBAA vice president of air traffic services and infrastructure.“In addition, some NBAA member companies use UAS exclusively in furtherance of their businesses.” Williams added that the association considers the proposed rule as foundational to advancing the integration of UAS and other emerging technologies into the National Airspace System (NAS) and its importance for safety, national security and operational efficiency. “However, NBAA members shared several concerns, including the need for electronic conspicuity, or sharing of position, for all aircraft in the NAS,” she said. “Electronic conspicuity solutions must be interoperable within the NAS and among relevant user groups, and must consider current and future technologies,” Williams noted.“ADS-B is one, but not the only means, of achieving effective electronic conspicuity. Industry standards could be used to identify appropriate means of achieving electronic conspicuity. Universal position sharing through electronic conspicuity across all aircraft in the NAS would also negate the need for complex changes to the existing right-of-way regulations, since UAS would simply detect and avoid all other aircraft.” Part 108 also outlines airworthiness requirements for aircraft to be flown under these rules. In its comments, NBAA advocated for retaining the NBAA PUSHES FAA FOR SAFETY-FIRST APPROACH TO PROPOSED DRONE REGULATIONS OPENING LINES 9 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
existing criteria for making decisions (CMD) process as an industry standard for UAS airworthiness, stating,“The current CMD process, a working method for airworthiness, has contributed to a very high level of safety and should not be discarded without justification.” Meanwhile, the TSA proposed changes would impose security measures on these operations, particularly package delivery operations. These proposed measures include security threat assessments for certain persons engaged in BVLOS operations and implementation of a formal, TSA-approved security program by certain types of operations. NBAA urged the TSA to withdraw its proposed regulations from this larger rulemaking and undertake a separate risk-based rulemaking process. 10 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
Aviation View BILLINGS LOGAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AN AVIATION GEM AT THE BASE OF THE RIMROCK MOUNTAINS CHERRY CAPITAL AIRPORT NORTHERN MICHIGAN’S AVIATION GATEWAY CRAIG FIELD AIRPORT AN AIRPORT DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH ELKO REGIONAL AIRPORT A SMALL BUT MIGHTY AIRPORT IN ONE OF THE LARGEST COUNTIES IN THE COUNTRY EVANSVILLE REGIONAL AIRPORT FLYING HIGH FLORENCE REGIONAL AIRPORT A FRIENDLY LANDING EVERY TIME GARY/CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT A NOD TO RESUMING COMMERCIAL AIRLINE ROUTES FOUR CORNERS REGIONAL AIRPORT EXPERTLY LANDING COMMERCIAL SERVICE WITH A VIEW TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT TAKING OFF 11 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
LAS CRUCES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT PLANS TO SOAR BEYOND ITS SMALL-TOWN STATUS YAKIMA AIR TERMINAL-MCALLISTER FIELD CLEAR SKIES AHEAD MORGANTOWN MUNICIPAL AIRPORT FULL SPEED AHEAD 12 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
BILLINGS LOGAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AN AVIATION GE OF THE RIMROCK AT A GLANCE BILLINGS LOGAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT WHAT: T he largest cargo service airport in Montana and a commercial and economic hub for the region WHERE: J ust outside of Billings, Montana WEBSITE: w ww.flybillings.com 13 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
EM AT THE BASE K MOUNTAINS If there is one thing that stands out when describing Billings Logan International Airport for those who may not have had the opportunity to visit yet, it is the warm welcome and customer-centered approach that the airport takes pride in. However, providing a clean, safe, and relaxed atmosphere is only part of the aviation puzzle. What makes this airport so unique and one to watch is its commitment to adding enhanced services, thinking outside the box to enhance economic prospects, and doing so at an airport enviably situated, sitting on approximately 2,500 prime acres surrounded by a beautiful natural backdrop. Nestled at the base of the spectacular Rimrock BALANCING PASSENGER DEMAND WITH INCREASED COMMERCIAL AND CARGO SERVICE POTENTIAL AND A WARM WELCOME 14 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
Mountains, just a short drive into the dynamic city of Billings, Montana, this airport has earned its reputation as a bit of an aviation hub. Serving as a gateway for tourists entering the region, as well as corporate travelers and passengers eager to take advantage of its expanded commercial routes, Billings Logan has a lot going on. Juggling the many A.A.E pieces that are at play at the airport, Jeff Roach, Billings Logan International Airport’s Aviation director, has taken the lead in several key areas as part of the airport’s overall master plan and capital infrastructure focus. With passenger numbers nearing the pre-pandemic level, Roach is optimistic about the airport’s vitality and is capitalizing on its obvious attributes to ensure that aviation numbers continue to rise. “We are continuing to increase our passengers served and the opportunities that our passengers have here at the airport,” Roach outlines. “We are now looking at significant milestones here at the airport related to increased activity. One of those is that we anticipate that we will exceed 1 million passengers through Billings Logan for the first time this calendar year,” he adds. ‘We’re looking for that millionth passenger in early December if our passenger numbers stay on track, and will of course identify that millionth passenger and celebrate that here in the terminal with our local business community, as well as inviting the media to participate in the celebration,” Roach elaborates. Beyond hitting this impressive passenger threshold later this year, Roach is also keeping busy focusing his efforts on earmarked airport improvement projects, exploring airport business potential, both aeronautical and non-aeronautical, as well as monitoring the recent addition to popular routes, including to Denver, a key aviation hub. With key infrastructure projects underway and planned, as well as an eye to increasing both its commercial and cargo capacity, Billings Logan has earned its place as a growing aviation center. 15 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03 BILLINGS LOGAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
While other airports may still be finding the route back from the pandemic a tricky one, Billings Logan International is flying high and paving the way to further growth as we embark on the third fiscal quarter of 2025. CARGO AND MEDICAL FOCUS TAKES FLIGHT “At Billings Logan International Airport, we are very much customer-focused and ensure the safe and efficient operation of the airport for our passengers, not only from our community, but from throughout the multi-state region that we serve,” Roach describes. Perfectly geared for increased cargo and commercial offerings, Roach relays that particular focus is being given to providing the infrastructure to attract another cargo carrier in addition to courting additional possible commercial airlines to make their home at the bustling airport. “Anything that improves the economic environment for the region that we serve means more business for the airport, both passenger and air cargo,” Roach notes. “Billings Logan is the busiest air cargo airport in the state of Montana.” “We’re also the 55th busiest air cargo airport in the nation, last year. Air cargo is very important to the operations here at Billings Logan International,” he expands. “We are always looking for opportunities to expand our footing in the air cargo arena. Last summer, we completed a fifth air cargo pad.” “Currently, we have two air cargo pads leased to FedEx, two cargo pads leased to UPS, and we have built a fifth pad for future air cargo expansion.” Boasting the longest surface runway in the state of Montana, coupled with good weather, top-tier instrumentation on the airfield, Billings Logan International has the capacity to handle cargo operators with ease in virtually any time without limitations. “The airport has the best opportunity for future 16 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
ENGINEERING FLIGHT: A NEW ERA AT BILLINGS LOGAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Morrison-Maierle is proud to share in the celebration of the terminal expansion at Billings Logan International Airport.This is a transformative project that brings modern amenities, increased capacity, and a better travel experience to one of Montana’s busiest airports. As the lead engineering firm, we provided full design services for the new terminal building, integrating structural, civil, mechanical, electrical, fire protection, and information communication solutions tailored for aviation. This milestone reflects not only our commitment to community-focused infrastructure, but to our clients, who rely on our comprehensive capabilities in airport engineering. From runways and taxiways to terminal buildings, air traffic control towers, and landside access, Morrison-Maierle’s airports team is equipped to deliver complex airport projects of any size. We support every phase—planning, design, and construction—across both airside and landside improvements. With offices throughout the Rocky Mountains and Pacific Northwest, we bring regional knowledge and national expertise to every runway we touch. Whether it’s a cargo apron, general aviation hangar, or long-range master plan, our multidisciplinary approach ensures that each solution is as dynamic as the industry we serve. At Billings and beyond, we’re proud to help airports prepare for what’s next. Morrison-Maierle—we create solutions that build better communities. BILLINGS LOGAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
air cargo development in the state of Montana, we think,” Roach states. Another significant development has added to the excitement that Roach exudes for the airport’s economic prospects. “Within the last few years, Rocky Vista University has opened a medical school in Billings, a doctor of osteopathic medicine, in conjunction with the construction of a new doctor of veterinary medicine school.” “Classes are expected to begin in about 12 to 18 months, and this will be Montana’s only doctor of veterinary medicine school as well as their medical school,” Roach summarizes. Roach notes that the medical facilities are very significant for the area that Billings Logan serves. “Agriculture is our number one industry in Montana, and having trained veterinarians available is critical to the agricultural industry.” The airport, Roach illustrates, is also positioned perfectly to help facilitate medical flights in and out of the area, situated down the road of what is referred to as the Billings medical corridor. “We have two major hospitals in Billings, and one of those is currently under construction with a new 14-story hospital facility just down the street from the airport- a less than five-minute drive from the terminal. This new addition represents about a billion dollars’ worth of construction over the next five years,” he signifies. “There are also numerous subsidiary medical offices and clinics in the same general area. Aircraft from both hospitals are based here at the airport, and they leave from the airport and go get the passengers and transport them to the hospital. They also transport passengers from the hospital to the airport who are going to then fly out for additional specialty care, such as in larger nearby centers including Salt Lake City and Denver. 18 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
AN ECONOMIC GATEWAY Recognized as an economic gateway to the region, Billings Logan International is backed by key economic stakeholders, including the Billings Chamber of Commerce, Visit Billings, Big Sky Economic Development, as well as the greater region around Yellowstone County. “We regularly meet and discuss air service development and business development at the airport or near the airport. We also work with them when we are going out and doing air service development efforts,” Roach explains. “We try to take participants from these economic organizations on those air service development trips and air service development activities so that the air carriers we are meeting with get a community perspective,” he elaborates. Roach is quick to point out that the strong community stakeholder relationships were firmly in place prior to 19 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03 BILLINGS LOGAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
him taking the helm, and these partnerships continue to provide the economic framework for greater business growth at the airport and throughout the region it serves. “At Billings Logan, we are always looking for additional aeronautical and non-aeronautical development with about 2,500 acres total available here and a significant amount of space available for future commercial development,” Roach relays. Roach highlights the northeast side of the airport, which used to be a US Air Force airbase and then transferred to the airport in the early 1970s, as prime space to lease out to additional air cargo carriers, as the airport remains determined to expand its footprint in the air cargo arena. Beyond cargo capabilities, Roach also draws attention to the airport solidifying its role as a hub airport with originating flights to five communities throughout the state through Cape Air. 20 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
“No other airport in the state of Montana has originating flights. So we are working to make sure that not only air carriers, but businesses are aware that we are a hub airport and we want to expand this role by securing other carriers to provide in-state and regional air service from Billings.” NAVIGATING INFRASTRUCTURE UPGRADES DOWN THE FLIGHT PATH Charting the airport’s route forward directly relates to some of the upgrades required. Roach is ensuring these capital airport improvement projects are up to speed and can accommodate projected cargo and commercial growth. The airport has completed the first half of its airport terminal upgrade and is part of the overall list of projects completed and slated for completion. “We expanded the terminal restaurant and gift shop to provide more concession opportunities and also expanded the TSA checkpoint area. “There are now three checkpoint lanes and room to expand to a fourth lane if our passenger levels rise to that need,” Roach adds. “The terminal project also involved modernizing the bathroom facilities, and we think that we have some of the best bathrooms of any airport in the nation. The airport passengers are recognizing the welcome terminal changes, and the media has picked up on it, too. “All of these changes helped us to be named in Travel and Leisure’s Domestic Airport Passenger Survey as number seven in the nation.” Billings Logan International will also see positive changes to its crosswind runway this year. “This year, we are taking runway 7-25 from 5,500 feet out to about 6,250 feet, and that corrects some of the geometry issues that we had with our general aviation runway that crossed our crosswind runway.” The crosswind runway that is currently limited to accommodating up to 12,500 pounds will soon be 21 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03 BILLINGS LOGAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n Morrison-Maierle www.m-m.net Morrison-Maierle is a 100% employee-owned multidisciplinary engineering firm with 12 offices throughout Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming. Whether you’re building infrastructure or creating places for people, you can count on us to bring not only experience and technical skills but also integrity, respect, and a genuine investment in your success. able to handle up to 17,500 pounds, which will allow for large planes to utilize the runway safely under strong wind conditions. These upgrades and additions to the airport, coupled with the anticipated construction of three new 100-foot by 100-foot commercial service hangars. Roach notes that completion of these hangars that will be available for lease hinges on the planned construction next year of a new taxiway into the airport’s commercial service area. As to the next year or so, Roach sums it up well. “We are always looking for additional aeronautical and non-aeronautical development on the airport, and we are continuously looking for opportunities to expand our cargo footprint.” Already home to FedEx and UPS, Roach is courting other cargo carriers as he diligently completes the necessary infrastructure work to accommodate them. “We are also looking at bringing in further commercial carriers that might be interested in providing flights that are shorter legs but provide service for the long distance we have in Montana and throughout this Mountain West region,” he projects. With all that is going on at Billings Logan International, it is clear that the airport is taking off to greater heights with its feet squarely planted on the ground, meeting passengers with a smile. 22 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
NORTHERN M AVIATION GA CHERRY CAPITAL AIRPORT AT A GLANCE CHERRY CAPITAL AIRPORT WHAT: A commercial and general aviation airport serving close to 800,000 passengers annually WHERE: T raverse City, Michigan WEBSITE: www.tvcairport.com 23 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
MICHIGAN’S ATEWAY Located in the scenic community of Traverse City, Cherry Capital Airport, a dynamic commercial and general aviation hub, has earned its place as a valued regional asset with an economic impact close to $2 billion. The airport is a primary source of medical and business travel, and a welcoming front door for tourists discovering the beauty of Northern Michigan. With record passenger growth, and ambitious expansion plans, Cherry Capital Airport is exceeding expectations and continuing to raise the aviation bar. DRIVING AVIATION GROWTH AND STEERING ECONOMIC EXPANSION 24 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
“We have an outstanding facility with two runways, one that’s 7016 feet, and one that’s 5378,” describes Kevin Klein, CEO of the Northwest Regional Airport Authority.“Cherry Capital Airport is the third largest airport in the state of Michigan. We have seven airlines that service us to 20 non stop destinations. From the general aviation side we have great fixed base operators with Avflight, 45 North, and air ambulance services with North Flight Aero Med.” Those operators support nearly 100,000 annual aircraft operations and a base of 105 aircraft. The airport is also home to the U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Traverse City, which operates three MH 60 Jayhawk helicopters for search and rescue missions across Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, and northern Lake Huron. FESTIVALS, TOURISM, AND PARTNERSHIPS Passenger traffic at Cherry Capital Airport reflects the seasonal appeal of the region. Traverse City and the surrounding area are gaining attention as an ideal summer destination, drawing visitors from Texas, Florida, and the East Coast who want to escape the heat. “In the summer, we offer all kinds of great outdoor activities, from golf to wineries to trails, fishing, and family fun,” notes Klein. “We have cold temperatures in the winter and it’s the reverse. Our locals want to get out and go to some warm place. So that’s where services, especially airlines like Allegiant, have become strong in our market. They provide that ‘non-stop fun to the sun,’ so to speak.” With a name that highlights Traverse City’s heritage as the world’s leading producer of tart cherries, Cherry Capital Airport works hand in hand with local tourism agencies to attract visitors to the community. “We celebrate that with a pretty large festival that brings in upwards of 500,000 people into our area. It kicks off with an air show, usually with a major act, like the Blue Angels or the Thunderbirds, or a major military act with F-22s,” Klein describes. Additionally, the Traverse City Equestrian Festival, a summer long event, brings in 5,000 horses and generates an economic impact of roughly $124 million annually. 25 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03 CHERRY CAPITAL AIRPORT
Partnerships with the Downtown Development Authority and Traverse City Tourism help to promote the airport and the community.“As a small airport, we don’t have a large marketing budget, so we match it with co-op funds that come from the tourism bureau,” he outlines. “As much as it’s important to bring people in to stay in our hotels, when someone flies in, they stay longer. The average stay of a person that flies in is about five days, compared to less than two for someone that would drive in.” BUSINESS, INNOVATION, AND MIGRATION Along with its importance as a tourism driver, Cherry Capital Airport also strengthens business growth in the region. “We are the hub traffic for Northern Michigan for air service,” Klein details. “Our legacy carriers, Delta, United and American, see that business traveler. We see all different kinds of things, from tech firms, engineering firms, and our medical fields. We are very strong in all of those areas, and we continue to see that growth.” The airport’s connectivity was also a factor during the pandemic trend that saw people migrating to preferred areas to work from home.“People wanted to work now where they could live and play,” he explains. “We saw that influx of people moving to our area. One of the reasons people chose Northern Michigan to live is because of the air service.” Klein points to the demographic shifts that are also shaping Cherry Capital Airport’s growth, noting that the Traverse City area is home to a high concentration of millennial millionaires. “That generation really wants to be able to travel for work and fun, so having an airport with seven airlines and 20 non stop destinations is very attractive to that age group,” he asserts. “It’s also very attractive for developing new businesses and we have lots of entrepreneurs in that millennial range.” INFRASTRUCTURE AND EXPANSION With growth exceeding forecasts, the airport is now investing in infrastructure to carry it forward. “Our current terminal was designed for about 350,000 annual passengers. In 2024 we had 787,114 total passengers,” says Klein. “We’re already growing in 26 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
2025 about 22 percent over the record year of 2024.” To meet this demand, Cherry Capital Airport is launching a $120 million terminal expansion project. Scheduled to begin in March 2026, the addition will create a new concourse with five jet bridges, to be completed by spring 2028. Plans also include a third concourse in the future. “We definitely need every inch of that room right now, and we’re growing at a rate that really is driving us to add that to it,” he underscores. “ The best part about that is we need terminal infrastructure to meet our growing demand, but from an airline standpoint, we have all the assets that not only get us anywhere domestically in the United States, but, with a 7000 foot runway, we would easily be able to achieve European destinations as these newer aircraft come on board.” Avflight also completed a new $7 million corporate hangar in 2024 for a local insurance company, adding to the airport’s growing infrastructure. Klein says private developers are also expressing strong interest, with proposals for 10 new small general aviation hangars and another three linked to a previous project. “We went to an airport authority in October of 2021, and that allows us the flexibility to negotiate leases with those that are willing to do private investment,” he shares. “Since we’ve been an authority Avflight has seen over $12 million worth of investments into the airport. We’ve seen another million dollars that’s going in with our cafe and gift shop, and those are all the types of things where you need long term leases.” TRAINING THE NEXT GENERATION As it continues to expand, Cherry Capital Airport is helping to train the aviation experts of the future. Northwestern Michigan College and Giving Wings Aviation both operate flight schools on the field, while Legacy Aviation provides aircraft mechanic training. “They’ve partnered with a local high school, Northwestern Michigan Education Services and our Career Opportunity Center on the aircraft 27 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03 CHERRY CAPITAL AIRPORT
THOUGHTFUL, CREATIVE DESIGN SINCE 1948 Cornwell Architects is a compact team with a strong commitment to purposeful design. Based in beautiful Traverse City Michigan, we offer full-service architecture built on collaboration, creativity, and communication. Our size allows us to stay nimble and responsive, giving each project the attention it deserves and ensures each design reflects both the client’s vision and our passion for quality craftsmanship. Founded over 75 years ago, we understand that success comes from strong long-lasting relationships within our community. Cornwell Architects is dedicated to serving Traverse City and the surrounding areas as we coordinate seamlessly with consultants, engineers, and contractors to deliver results that align with your goals, your timeline, and your budget. We bring our passion and knowledge of architecture to any project, large and small, guiding clients from early concepts through construction with open communication and honesty. We are proud to help design the places where our communities work, learn, and play. Whether it is a renovation or new construction, Cornwell Architects is ready to help you create something beautiful and enduring. WWW.CORNWELL-ARCHITECTS.COM • 231-946-7711 Cornwell Architects is more than an architectural design firm; we are a true business partner and trusted advisor who shares our clients’ vision and works with them to bring that vision to reality. Cornwell Architects takes pride in their flexible approach to exceeding their client’s project goals, whether it’s the financial performance of a commercial project or the details of a quiet sitting area for a lake-front home. Cornwell Architects 3050 Sunset Ln, Traverse City, MI , 49684 231.946.7711 VISIT OUR WEBSITE
DOING BUSINESS IN TRAVERSE CITY With sweeping Lake Michigan views, award-winning wineries, and miles of scenic trails,Traverse City is celebrated as a top-tier vacation destination—named one of the “10 Best Places to Go” in the world by The Wall Street Journal in 2025. It’s more than a beautiful place to visit—it’s a remarkable place to live, work, and build a business. Millions are drawn to the region’s natural beauty and vibrant culture. Many stay. What begins as a vacation often turns into a vision for a new life, starting a company, relocating family, and pursuing a balanced lifestyle. Traverse City’s business appeal is a thriving entrepreneurial community, where both small startups and global brands are flourishing. The region offers seamless air access and a quality of life that’s hard to match. It’s home to a rich agricultural heritage—known as the Cherry Capital of the World—and produces more varieties of fruits and vegetables than nearly any other state. That same abundance fuels an innovative local economy, powering a nationally recognized beverage and farm-to-table scene. Traverse City isn’t just a great place to visit—it’s where people plant roots, grow ideas, and build futures. It’s where vacation dreams turn into lasting legacies. E actly w ere ou s ould be. In between nature and water, ou’ll find a communit connected b both. Where we take care of each other and what’s around us. Respect the land and water. Connect with friends. Celebrate ever thin else. TraverseCit .com CHERRY CAPITAL AIRPORT
maintenance side,” relays Klein. “In high school they can get training, and then they come to Legacy to finish that training. Then, within a year, they have an aircraft airframe and power plant license, and they can go to work.” With starting salaries in the $75,000 to $80,000 range, the program is addressing a workforce shortage while providing high paying jobs for graduates. On the healthcare side, North Flight Aero Med operates from the airport in partnership with Munson Medical Center. Its fleet, which includes a Sikorsky S-76 helicopter and King Air 200 aircraft, provides rapid patient transport across Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. Klein recounts,“They will go up and pick up patients and take them down to U of M or bring them into our hospital here. We have a major trauma center, cancer center and heart center here in Traverse City. So the ability to have an air ambulance to get people from rural areas when anything major happens is an awesome advantage. It makes our quality of life here very high.” 30 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
PASSIONATE LEADERSHIP FOR CONTINUED GROWTH Looking ahead, Klein says completing the terminal expansion, attracting another legacy carrier, and extending the peak season into year round activity are his three top priorities. On a more personal note, Klein shares his love of aviation, which is not just a career but a lifelong passion. He credits his father, who used to take him and his siblings to watch airplanes on Sunday afternoons, for sparking his interest.After earning an aviation degree from Western Michigan University and working across the country, Klein returned to Michigan in 2002. He became airport director in 2011 and later CEO when the airport transitioned to authority status. “I love Traverse City. It’s my home. And one of the reasons I stay here is because I get to work where I play and live,” he imparts. “I love the airport itself, all the people that work here meadhunt.com 125 Years of Shaping the Future Full-service engineering, architecture, and planning services for your infrastructure needs. • Aviation • Cultural Resources • Education • Federal • Food & Beverage • Renewable Energy • Technology Services • Transportation • Water 31 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03 CHERRY CAPITAL AIRPORT
PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n Cornwell Architects www.cornwell-architects.com Cornwell Architects has collaborated with Cherry Capital Airport on multiple projects from an addition, tenant buildout, airplane hangar, and is excited to be a consultant for the future terminal expansion. We are a full-service Architectural firm that is excited to advance the aviation industry in Northern Michigan. n Traverse City Tourism www.traversecity.com Traverse City Tourism is an independent, not-forprofit destination organization that promotes the greater Traverse City area as a leisure and business destination with an excellent quality of life. Through travel, Traverse City Tourism helps strengthen the local economy and supports a thriving entrepreneurial community. n Mead & Hunt, Inc www.meadhunt.com Mead & Hunt delivers engineering, architecture, planning, and construction services nationwide. For several consecutive years, Engineering News-Record has ranked Mead & Hunt as a top 500 A/E design firm and is currently #9 in Airports. The company has grown significantly since its founding 125 years ago. Markets include aviation, transportation, water, federal, education, food/beverage, renewable energy, and technology services. and are part of our airport family. We have close to 2000 people that work for various businesses across the airport. Our love of aviation is there every day.To be able to see the number of flights grow, and the airlines coming to see what this is all about, that’s very rewarding in itself.” 32 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
AN AIRPORT DIAMO CRAIG FIELD AIRPORT AT A GLANCE CRAIG FIELD AIRPORT WHAT: A general aviation airport and former military base of operations focused firmly on infrastructure upgrades and future economic potential. WHERE: Selma, Alabama IMPROVING AND LEVERAGING AIRPORT ASSETS T 33 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
OND IN THE ROUGH TO GUARANTEE A GLEAMING PATH AHEAD You do not have to ask Jim Corrigan, Executive Director of the Craig Field Airport and Industrial Authority, twice about what his prime objective is for what was a former military-operated airport and now a full-scale aviation gem. “We are leveraging our assets here at the airport in Selma, Dallas County, an economic region already identified as an opportunity zone.” Focusing on the distinct advantages that Craig Field Airport 34 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
can lay claim to has been an economic strategy that is starting to pay off for Corrigan. Boasting the longest serving runway in the State of Alabama and a newly-minted state-of-the-art traffic control tower as well as plenty of land airside and industriallybased acreage to play with, this dynamic little airport is an enviable and growing aviation hub. It is not a stretch to say, as a direct result of Corrigan’s tireless efforts, that Craig Field Airport has now grown to represent a regional economic engine.The airport has the tailwind behind it to serve as an unmatched gateway to the beautiful and economically diverse region of Selma and Dallas County. THE ROUTE BACK FROM ECONOMIC DECLINE TO AVIATION GROWTH Once largely neglected after the military base shutdown, Corrigan has taken on the awesome responsibility of ensuring that the airport’s assets are utilized to their full capacity while maximizing its economic potential in the interest of regional expansion. After spending 21 years flying for Delta Airlines following his transition from the military, coming “home” to direct the future of the airport that is so close to his heart represented a prime opportunity for Corrigan. “We are a general aviation airport,” Corrigan begins. “Before the military base closed in 1977, there had been two working 8,000-foot runways, but when a military [operation] is closed, a general aviation airport can not afford to keep two runways open.” Corrigan points out that with the closure of the Craig Airfield Base, the region unfortunately faced an economic downturn for some time.When it came time for Corrigan to take over airport duties, it was helpful, however, that he just so happened to hold close ties to the airport and was familiar with the economic setbacks of the past. He had been stationed at Craig Field at the beginning of his aviation career and flew F-16s for 23 years. With an insider’s knowledge of the airport’s past, he possessed a clear understanding of just where his vision could take Criag Field long term. 35 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03 CRAIG FIELD AIRPORT
Equipped with a high-ranking military background and aviation in his DNA, he viewed taking over the airport as a golden opportunity to navigate a clear course forward. TAKING OFF BY LEVERAGING AIRPORT ASSETS After taking over the airport reins and determined to utilize the assets the airport already has to work with, Corrigan set plans in motion to take this once underutilized ‘diamond in the rough’ to the visible gem it represents today. “The airport has 18 airplanes that are housed in our T hangars and even a maintenance operation, Resicum International.This is a new business with an aviation branch, Aeropro, which opened here and they do maintenance.They have their 145 certifications and are licensed to service serious airplanes.” Corrigan also highlights that Resicum offers avionics training certification in addition to A & P mechanics training. He also points out that “We do have a military fuel contract, so we can cater to the military here, and they like the long runway as well as the uncongested airspace around here.” Corrigan lists other assets, including a large parking area, as well as approximately 1,800 acres at the airport off the abandoned runway. “The airport also has an industrial park.” “I own the rail spur that comes through our park and we are only one of a few industrial parks that have rail service and one of the only ones that has all three- rail spur, industrial land, and an airfield.” Projecting ahead, Corrigan muses that eventually, an intermodal distribution operation could even be a possibility. “I want to leverage these assets to make the biggest bang for the buck for the Selma, Dallas County economy,” he states with determination. He articulates that “A home run would be if we were able to land a maintenance repair operation.” Such 36 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
to different groups downtown and been part of the mayor’s conferences, and I have even spoken to the Federal EDA and the Federal EPA on how important the airport is for economic growth.” CAPITAL INFRASTRUCTURE PLANS SOARING AHEAD Tackling the infrastructure left behind after the airport temporarily closed its doors in the late 1970s, Corrigan has torn down old buildings and built up the lands around the airport, preparing the groundwork for future businesses to move in. “My job is to improve airport assets; tear down the old, and make room for new growth.” a wish is well within Corrigan’s grasp. He maintains a very close relationship with key entities that he established links with as soon as he took over airport operations, including the Mayor of Selma, the probate judges, and the County Commission. “The good news is that both the probate judge, the County Commissioner, and the city council, along with the mayor realize just how key Craig Field is to the economic development of the region.” “If a company were to show interest, they can come to an airport served by rail, and it has the facilities that they need logistically,” he relays. “I have lost track of how many times I have spoken 37 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03 CRAIG FIELD AIRPORT
facility; we are ready for business.” One crucial development at the airport that helped it better reach its potential is the addition of Advanced ATC, an air traffic control academy. With their arrival, they built a control tower that is advantageous for the airport’s future. “I have now controlled airspace five miles around up to 2,500 feet.” “There are a lot of companies that won’t come into an airfield base because of insurance requirements unless there is a control tower,” he adds. Corrigan mentions that air traffic controllers are now trained on the airport grounds.The air traffic control “If a business wants to move in I do have 41,000 square foot or 28,000 square foot hangars resale,” he states. “I am not going to, however, lease a hangar to a company with five employees but rather bring in a business that is labor intensive so again we can have the biggest bang for our buck,” he continues. “I know that it is important to bring business here and to hire locally. That is also one of our goals- I keep polishing the diamond.” “We have a full-time grant writer and now have about $8.7 million that have either come through or are on the way here for improvements to this 38 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
up on the list of infrastructure priorities for Corrigan. “We received $2.8 million from the state to renovate the building which is now a top-of-the-line air traffic control academy with state-of-the-art line simulators.” Corrigan wants to pour an additional $3 million into renovating a dorm building using a federal EDA grant to complement the ATC facility. “I also have two EPA brownfield grants from the tower has also had a spin-off effect for Resicum’s aviation branch, allowing them to expand flight training as they ramp up their operations adding new aircraft and students. “We are trying to do the right things to make us ripe for a company to want to come in here and establish a business,” he explains. Some of the infrastructure money is also invested into routing a main water line to the airport’s main hangar. Upgrading the ATC building was also high 39 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03 CRAIG FIELD AIRPORT
“I have taxiway renovation phase one starting in August, and phase two will start in October.” This project gears towards alleviating some of the current strain on the taxiway when larger planes land. The renovations are estimated to cost $1.6 and $1.7 million, respectively, and will provide much-needed benefits for the airport in the long run. “Having a huge runway is a great asset. You do not want to end up overstressing your taxiways,” he sums up. The airport is also looking to resurface the hangar asphalt as part of its master plan over the next few years. A VIEW DOWN THE FLIGHT PATH AHEAD With such a clear path carved out and many competing tasks to get there, it is a wonder that Corrigan has the energy left to think about anything else. To the contrary, Corrigan has also set his sights on playing a key role in encouraging youth in the region federal EPA to tear down four buildings on the flight line and to remove a huge gymnasium that just fell into disrepair that is right in the front yard of the air traffic control academy. The buildings will go down this summer and then be turned into grass field areas. This work coincides with the awarding of an additional $1.2 million grant to renovate the five-and-a-half-mile rail spur. Airside, Corrigan is looking at additional infrastructure projects for the airport. Web pbaviationfuels.com Phone 229-924-6110 Toll Free 877-753-8584 At Perry Brothers Aviation Fuels, every journey counts. Experience Jet A and Avgas delivered with our commitment to quality, safety, dependable supply, and truly exceptional customer care. Fuel your Mission with Confidence 40 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 03
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