The technical requirements present significant challenges. Electric aircraft need 480-volt, 750-kilowatt three-phase power, though industry standards remain unsettled.“It’s kind of like VHS and beta as far as the VCRs. They haven’t quite zeroed in on a universally accepted plug, but we’re getting closer,” Hodgman explains. Power supply concerns go beyond the airport. Pacific Power, the local utility, has committed to providing 30 megawatts of capacity. “They understand the level of demand,” says Hodgman.“But certainly, there are peak demand and off-peak demand times.” The airport plans to install battery storage systems, charging during nighttime off-peak hours to meet daytime operational needs. Solar is another aspect of the energy strategy. “We have 300 days of sunshine here. Airports are ideal for solar collectors,” Hodgman notes.“Going into the future, we certainly would want to benefit from solar power as well.” ECONOMIC GATEWAY TO REGIONAL GROWTH Airport proximity drives economic activity across Washington state, with 97% of gross business income occurring within 10 miles of airports and 70% within five miles. For Yakima, this translates into tangible development opportunities as businesses seek alternatives to congested Western Washington locations. “I view this airport as a business, even though it’s government,” says Hodgman, whose background includes business degrees alongside his aviation experience. “We have tremendous volumes of available land here and a very available workforce. But in order for companies to be able to function, they need reliable air service.” The new fixed base operator agreement exemplifies this growth strategy. Makito will develop 13 acres on the airport’s south end,providing not only fuel services but also FAA-certified repair station capabilities. “Seattle is becoming very, very congested,” Hodgman explains.“The challenges in the Seattle area are the prices are much higher for the same level of service. We think we’re going to have a unique niche here in Yakima of being able to provide those higher-level maintenance, repair and overhaul services, but at a more competitive price.” Air cargo represents another expansion frontier. With SeaTac facing an 800,000 metric ton freight capacity shortfall by 2050, Yakima offers solutions through proximity to Interstate 82 and planned infrastructure.“We’re planning to extend our runway by 2,000 feet to get us out to 9,600 feet, which is now in the realm of international air cargo freighters,” 8 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 07
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