In a recent Daggett County Commission meeting, discussions centered on the future of local airports, particularly Skypark Airport and Dutch John Airport. The meeting featured insights from seasoned pilot and airport manager Kent Campbell, who emphasized the need for a strategic plan to enhance airport operations and development.

Campbell, who has over 60 years of flying experience and has managed Skypark Airport for nearly three decades, proposed the creation of a dedicated board to implement an airport layout plan. This initiative aims to facilitate development at Dutch John Airport, with potential implications for Manila Airport as well. "We need to put it into action and start making development on those airports," Campbell stated, highlighting the importance of proactive planning.

However, concerns were raised about the limited traffic at these airports, particularly during the off-peak months. Campbell acknowledged the challenges, noting that the current usage does not justify extensive investments. He suggested that future traffic could increase with the potential development of a nearby ski resort, which could attract more visitors during winter months.

To better understand current airport usage, Campbell proposed installing a camera to monitor traffic patterns. "Let's find out what's coming," he urged, referencing past events where as many as six jets arrived for a short period, indicating sporadic but significant activity.

The meeting underscored the need for a balanced approach to airport development, weighing current usage against future potential. As the commission considers these recommendations, the focus remains on fostering growth while addressing the realities of limited seasonal traffic. The next steps will involve further discussions on the proposed board and the feasibility of the airport layout plan, setting the stage for potential advancements in Daggett County's aviation landscape.