In the heart of Oklahoma City, the Oklahoma City Airport Trust convened on July 24, 2025, to discuss significant developments in the realm of general aviation. The meeting, held under the bright lights of city hall, featured key presentations from the airport's dedicated staff, including Christy Slater, who highlighted the bustling activity at Wiley Post and CE Page airports.
With a workforce of 11, the general aviation division oversees approximately 2,500 acres and manages around 350 based aircraft at Wiley Post, alongside 70 at CE Page. The airports collectively handle over 125,000 flight operations annually, showcasing their vital role in the region's aviation landscape. Slater emphasized the importance of these facilities, noting the presence of 70 businesses and four fixed-base operators (FBOs) that contribute to the local economy.
The meeting also provided updates on several major projects aimed at enhancing airport infrastructure. A significant milestone was the completion of the West Parallel runway at Wiley Post, which has been widened to 100 feet and extended to 5,000 feet. This upgrade not only accommodates larger aircraft but also improves air traffic control efficiency, ultimately increasing the airport's capacity.
In tandem with the runway project, improvements to drainage systems were discussed. These enhancements aim to mitigate historical flooding issues that have plagued the airport, particularly on the east side. The construction of a large detention area is expected to provide long-term solutions to these challenges.
Another noteworthy topic was the demolition of the Gulfstream facility, a long-standing structure that has fallen into disrepair. The removal of these buildings is anticipated to improve safety and aesthetics, paving the way for potential redevelopment opportunities.
Looking ahead, plans for a new control tower at Wiley Post are in the works, with design phases nearing completion. This new facility will address current line-of-sight issues faced by air traffic controllers and is expected to enhance operational efficiency. The airport trust is actively pursuing federal grant funding to support this construction.
Additional projects include the development of box hangars in the Northeast Development Area and the installation of new entrance signage at Wiley Post, aimed at improving the airport's overall appearance and accessibility. A self-service fuel station for piston engine aircraft has also been completed at CE Page, providing added convenience for tenants.
As the meeting concluded, the trustees expressed their appreciation for the ongoing efforts of the airport staff, recognizing the critical role these developments play in supporting Oklahoma City's aviation sector and its economic vitality. The future looks promising for the city's airports, with continued investments poised to enhance their functionality and service to the community.