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Jackson Hole Airport budgets to continue major capital projects, raises terminal fees and plans new administration building
Summary
Airport staff told the joint boards they will continue major capital work — including the de-icing pad reconstruction and administration/FBO building completion — and proposed modest fee increases to cover operations while maintaining capital and environmental programs.
Jackson Hole Airport staff presented the airport’s FY2026 budget to the town and county April 29, outlining a continuation of large capital projects — notably de-icing pad reconstruction and the new administration/FBO building — modest fee increases and an emphasis on environmental stewardship and noise mitigation.
Airport staff said the airport used a 0-based budgeting process and the board guided decisions with a vision focused on guest experience and environmental stewardship. The presentation highlighted continued capital work on the de-icing pad to improve winter operations, completion of the administration and FBO building construction (with an anticipated completion in late 2025 or January 2026), and planning for a replacement aircraft rescue and firefighting facility as an early design-stage item.
Key budget points
- Rates and fees: staff proposed increasing terminal rents and landing fees on both the commercial and general aviation sides by 12%, and increasing general aviation parking/handling/tie-down fees by the same percentage. Automobile peak parking rates would increase to $35 per night and the definition of peak days would be expanded to 70 days.
- Staffing and compensation: the airport board endorsed a 6% merit pool and a $1,500 monthly housing and transportation stipend for full-time employees (half that amount for part-time staff).
- Capital program: major ongoing projects include the de-icing pad reconstruction and the new administration/FBO building. Staff also plan smaller maintenance projects, upgrades to baggage-handling equipment, replacement snow-removal equipment and pavement work.
Why it matters: the airport’s capital projects and operational adjustments affect winter safety and the travel experience for visitors and residents. Airport staff also emphasized programs such as the airport’s newly certified dark-sky status and other environmental mitigation efforts.
Quotes
- "The airport board has spent quite a bit of time making sure that this budget is built solid and effective," board member Jim Elwood (speaking remotely) said, praising staff and the board process.
Next steps: airport staff will proceed with the capital program and return to elected officials as needed for grant matches and project approvals.
