by private jets and other aircraft, particularly for hunting expeditions and other seasonal activities. Despite the range of travelers, the airport makes sure to give priority to one primary function over all others. “We track flights and our number one use is medevac to the area. That is our priority and that has priority over anything else,” Airth explains, emphasizing how essential that medevac service is to a rural community like High Prairie. The airport’s role in emergency medical evacuations has been crucial to the local community, as it has gained access to a critical service that often outweighs others in importance. The airport’s operational capacity includes a privately owned hangar leased from the county, which can house up to five helicopters or two to three planes, depending on their size. Plans are in place to construct a second hangar to support a local crop dusting company, which has expressed a need for additional space due to its expanding fleet. Relative to the impact of other upgrades and projects, the introduction of self-serve fuel stations has been the biggest game-changer for the airport. The automated fueling system increases the airport’s overall attractiveness to transient pilots which has significantly boosted traffic and operational efficiency, enabling pilots to refuel quickly and continue their journeys without delay. Technological integration at High Prairie Regional Airport has played a crucial role in enhancing its operational capabilities. The recently implemented unmanned fuel service system reflects a broader trend in aviation towards greater automation and convenience. Additionally, the airport has upgraded its Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS), which provides real-time weather updates for pilots. This system is 302 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 09
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