Business View Magazine l November 2022

240 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 9, ISSUE 11 another ramp. One recent project that is having a huge impact on the airport is the installation of two 12,000-gallon fuel tanks and trucks. “The airport is now selling aviation gasoline and jet fuel,” stated Lucas. He said he hopes Ridgeland-Claude Dean will be a full-service airport by the end of 2026 although construction and delivery timelines have been impacted by Covid, companies experiencing labor challenges, and supply-chain issues. The SCAC study reported 1,540 visitors annually to the Ridgeland airport. Ridgeland - Claude Dean Airport is approximately 40 minutes from Bluffton, 50 minutes to Hilton Head Island and 60 minutes to Savannah. The airport is “a gateway to the community,” said Lucas. “Jasper County Council wants make sure the new airport makes a positive impression upon business and recreational visitors. In addition, we are eight minutes away from the PGA-class golf course, Congaree.” The CJ Cup held at Congaree in October resulted in 8 golfers arriving in private jets and 4 private aircraft carrying spectators. Lucas reported that 18 jets and 3 turbo props visited the airport during the tournament. Additionally, 4,073 gallons of fuel was sold during the tournament.