Airport board reports published approaches, fuel sales and plans for new T-hangars

Randy Fox, representing the county airport, briefed the council on recent airport developments, including publication of instrument approaches, winter preparation, fuel sales and a push to grow non-tax revenue through hangars and development.

Fox said all approaches are now published except one outer marker that still needs certification; as a result, “we shouldn't be turning away any jet traffic or anybody else that wants to use the airport.” He reported fuel sales for November of 13,906 gallons of Jet A and 2,500 gallons of aviation gasoline and gave activity numbers for the FBO: six aircraft rentals, 31 training sessions, nine simulator sessions eligible for FAA credit, two discovery flights and 25 maintenance jobs.

On infrastructure, Fox said the airport board passed a buy-operate-transfer resolution to prepare for new T-hangar construction and that the board hopes to fund one hanger outright and finance the remaining one or two on short terms. He noted a waiting list for hangars and said new hangars could replace aging A and B hangars that sit within the runway protection area.

Fox described a longer-term vision to reduce taxpayer support by developing the south side of the airport and leasing property for light industry; he said a prior study estimated the airport’s economic contribution to northeast Indiana at nearly $16 million.

Why it matters: Published instrument approaches and hangar development can increase airport operations and non-tax revenue; fuel sales and tenant income directly affect airport finances and the county’s goal of reducing operational subsidies.

What’s next: Airport staff will continue equipment upgrades, pursue hangar construction and market available development acreage to generate lease revenue.