With projects in top focus, the airport can then turn its attention to anticipated business growth by supporting and encouraging aeronautical and non-aeronautical businesses on the airport grounds. “We have some business out here at the airport that includes Midwest Custom Ag Aviation, which is a successful spraying company that utilizes crop duster planes, and we have a lease with them alongside our lease with our FBO,” Marin summarizes. “We also have two air ambulance providers— EagleMed and Apollo Med—that serve the community.” “We might also be looking into maybe purchasing some land that is for sale adjacent to the airport as a way to expand our business footprint,” he offers. The airport is also looking to add another hangar to help facilitate its aviation growth and hopes that this can be achieved within the next few years. “These types of projects take time, and we will be working with the FAA to address future infrastructure and terminal expansion.” While hangar space is a future priority, the airport did recently accomplish one of its main pressing goals- a terminal upgrade that tackles key areas to accommodate additional space for its staff, passengers, and TSA operations. “We knocked down walls to make more space. With the terminal expansion and remodel, we now have plenty of space. The security area is now a more efficient use of space, the airport added restrooms and a mother’s room for privacy, and in the area where TSA is located, the airport added new equipment to go along with the increased room to operate seamlessly. “It is more comfortable now. We expanded our lobby area and have a bigger baggage claim area, which provides for a nicer passenger experience,” Marin elaborates. “There are now two computers at the ticket counter, and we will be looking at expanding the parking lot as one of our future projects on our airport layout plan, working with an engineering partner.” THE FLIGHT PATH AHEAD While parking continues to top the list of future airport projects, Marin does list other objectives that include looking at a taxiway rehab and airport fencing to increase safety. “Also, adding an airport maintenance facility is also part of the airport layout plan moving forward, as well as new LED lighting on the crosswind runway, once complete,” Marin continues. 91 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 13, ISSUE 02 DODGE CITY REGIONAL AIRPORT
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