expand into post-secondary aviation programs at institutions such as Wichita State or Kansas Stateaffiliated programs in Salina, creating a structured pathway from local education into aviation careers. That pipeline is already attracting student interest. Fornwalt recently heard from a high school student exploring airport management as a career, and the airport offered opportunities for an on-site tour, office shadowing, and operational observation during flight arrivals—an example of the airport’s practical approach to connecting local students to real-world career possibilities. LEASING OPPORTUNITIES AND AIRPORT LAND USE Like many regional airports, the field continues to pursue both aeronautical and non-aeronautical business opportunities. Leasing activity on vacant land has helped generate revenue, but recent interest has leaned more heavily toward nonaeronautical users. Fornwalt notes that attracting more aeronautical activity remains a priority, and the airport continues exploring how to make aviation-focused opportunities more compelling to prospective tenants. While new non-aeronautical tenants have not recently been added, existing relationships remain stable, and the airport continues to position itself for future demand—particularly as the drone manufacturing project advances and as passenger service expands. TOURISM, EVENTS, AND GENERAL AVIATION DEMAND General aviation traffic is influenced by a mix of regional activity and seasonal tourism. The airport supports travelers attending unique local attractions such as Dorothy’s House and the Land of Oz experience, including the large ruby-slipperthemed slide that has become a signature draw.The community also hosts distinctive annual events, including Pancake Day, which adds to seasonal visitor traffic and community activity. In the fall, hunting contributes to GA movement, and the region benefits from nearby attractions such as a rodeo held approximately 40 miles away—an event 205 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 13, ISSUE 01 LIBERAL-MID AMERICA REGIONAL AIRPORT
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