Stillwater Council considers adoption of Regional Airport Master Plan for future development

The Stillwater City Council has taken a significant step towards enhancing local air travel by adopting a new master plan for the Stillwater Regional Airport. During a meeting on June 2, 2025, city officials discussed the comprehensive plan, which aims to guide the airport's development over the next 20 years.

Kelly Reid, a city representative, introduced the plan, emphasizing its importance in updating the airport's facilities and services. The previous master plan, adopted in 2008, lacked crucial information about commercial air service, making this update timely and necessary. The new plan not only addresses existing facilities but also outlines future development for both aeronautical and non-aeronautical uses.

Kelly Maddox from Mead and Hunt, the consulting firm involved in the project, provided an overview of the master plan's components. He explained that the plan serves as a decision-making tool for orderly airport development, forecasting passenger and aircraft activity, and identifying necessary improvements. Notably, the plan includes updates to the airport layout and noise contours, which are essential for compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.

One of the key findings from the master plan is the airport's rapid recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Projections indicate that the airport is on track to exceed its 20-year employment forecast by the end of the current fiscal year, with an estimated 35,000 passenger operations expected. This rebound highlights the airport's growing significance in the region.

The master plan also identifies critical infrastructure needs, particularly for the terminal building, which is currently undersized at approximately 10,000 square feet. The plan anticipates a need for a facility of nearly 30,000 square feet to accommodate future growth, including space for two airlines and improved passenger services.

In conclusion, the adoption of the Stillwater Regional Airport Master Plan marks a pivotal moment for the city, setting the stage for enhanced air travel services and economic development. As the city moves forward with implementation, stakeholders and community members can look forward to a more robust and efficient airport that meets the demands of the future.