The Canandaigua Airport

THE CANANDA IGUA A I RPORT were able to convince the IDA how important an improved airport would be to the area’s future economic growth. A 3,200-ft. runway was installed in the late 1990s, after the IDA became the sponsor and owner of the Airport. In 2013, a public roadway was bisected to extend the runway to a jet-capable 5,500 feet. Now, a broader spectrum of aircraft can use the airport.” Today, the Canandaigua Airport has much to offer residents, business travelers, and tourists. The Airport is only minutes from the greater Rochester area, home to technology companies in the fields of optics and photonics, as well as a number of private colleges and universities. The Airport is also equidistant to the cities of Syracuse and Buffalo, which are easily accessed via interstate I-90. The nearby city of Canandaigua offers many reasons to visit. Visitors can enjoy watersports in the summer, skiing in the winter, and year-round antiques and art along the city’s historic Main Street. The Airport is situated in the heart of Finger Lakes wine country, the largest wine producing region in the state, with over 100 award-winning wineries. Canandaigua Airport is active 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It is used for flight training, helicopter utility inspection, balloon launching, gliders, military operations, medical transport, charter flights, recreational flying, and more. Currently, approximately 60 general aviation aircraft are home-based there. Moreover, the Airport serves its primary objective of supporting the local business economy with a steady stream of corporate flights. Onsite businesses include M&S Air Service, Inc., a flying school; Canandaigua Air Center, a full- service maintenance shop that does restorations, painting, and repairs; and Mercy Flight Central Aviation Services, an FBO that provides essential services for aircraft and passengers. Mincer doesn’t see the Canandaigua Airport being in direct competition with other nearby facilities, as each has its own unique position. “I have frequent conversations with surrounding airport managers to discuss trends, issues, and other airport-related matters.” he says. “I do not perceive them as rivals. I think we each understand and