Business View Magazine - January 2024

This development addresses the current deficit in hangar space and is a response to the growing demand for aircraft storage facilities. The new hangars, poised to be a crucial addition to the airport’s infrastructure, reflect a thoughtful approach to meeting the aviation community’s needs. NEW TERMINAL PLANS Another exciting development is the potential construction of a new terminal building. The current terminal dates to 1976 and is sturdy but undersized for the airport’s growing operations. Hatchell shares details about the conceptual design for a new terminal, emphasizing the importance of creating a welcoming gateway for travelers. This initiative aligns with a broader trend across North Carolina, where regional airports upgrade their terminals to enhance the passenger experience. Unique in its offering, Laurinburg-Maxton boasts a remarkable 3,000 acres of land, a legacy of its expansive 1945 acquisition. This vast expanse sets it apart, especially compared to other general aviation airports. Hatchell notes that this land is a veritable goldmine for economic development, with about 1,000 acres primed for such ventures. The airport’s partnership with the Scotland County Economic Development Corporation is a tribute to its proactive approach to leveraging land assets. As Hatchell points out, this collaboration has traditionally focused on non-aviation industries. There’s a palpable excitement about shifting gears towards aviation-centric businesses, given the airport’s uncongested airspace and strategic location near key North Carolina cities. As for the existing industrial landscape, Hatchell provides a glimpse into the diversity of companies that call the airport’s industrial park home. The range is impressive, from WePAC, which specializes in package handling, to RHA, an organization that empowers mentally challenged individuals by equipping them with trade skills. Other notable mentions included Cortiva Agri Science, a player in the agricultural sector, and American Wood Fibers, which produces wood pellets for various applications. The presence of Meritor 273 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 01 LAURINBURG-MAX TON AI RPORT