Coshocton Richard Downing Airport announces corporate hangar plans
COSHOCTON – Coshocton Richard Downing Airport has announced plans to construct a new corporate hangar to better serve business and private aircraft operating into Coshocton County. The 7,040 square foot hangar will enhance airport operations by providing overnight and short term hangarage for three medium size jets or a variety of other aircraft. In addition to serving corporate and private clients traveling to Coshocton and adjacent counties, the hangar will generate vital revenue to support airport operations. A fundraising campaign for hangar construction seeking corporate, foundation, and individual support is under way.
The corporate hangar is vital to the airport’s long-term development strategy according to Dr. Jerold Meyer, Chairman of the Coshocton County Regional Airport Authority Board of Directors which governs airport operations.
“Corporate and private jets represent a growing segment of flight operations into Richard Downing Airport,” Meyer said. “Without a transient hangar, many operators of high-value aircraft are reluctant to overnight in Coshocton County and continue to other airports. By providing safe, four-season storage, the corporate hangar will better serve Richard Downing clients. Related revenue from hangar rentals and increased fuel sales will support airport operations and reduce our reliance on government funding.”
Bethel Toler, Airport Administrator, detailed the planned facility.
“The corporate hangar will perfectly complement our modern terminal and runway which was extended to 5001 feet to handle jet aircraft,” Toler observed. “The hangar is designed for versatility, whether accommodating medium jets, lightweight aircraft, or helicopters, and will be positioned for convenient access to the runway and terminal. The painted steel siding and masonry will be visually appealing and offer long life with minimal maintenance.”
While occupancy is not anticipated until October 2018, Richard Downing Airport has already received inquiries about future hangar rentals including corporate clients, local property owners who reside out of state, and individuals traveling to Coshocton County for hunting and outdoor recreation.
“We have clients who routinely fly to Richard Downing from many distant states, including Alabama, Texas, and Florida, who need overnight aircraft storage”, Toler said. “We anticipate a steady increase in hangar demand once the facility is known within the aviation community.”
The corporate hangar can also impact economic development in Coshocton County according to David Baker, Senior Partner of The Eddington Venture Group, who is leading project development.
“Many corporations rely on private aviation to transport personnel, clients, and supplies to distant operations,” said Baker. “A surprising number of leisure clients also use aircraft to access local hunting, tourism interests, and private retreats. A direct flight to Coshocton is far more efficient than commercial flights to metropolitan airports where passengers endure security delays, airline schedules, and long drives to Coshocton.” Baker continued, “Whether serving business or leisure clients, increased overnight stays driven by the corporate hangar will impact local hotels, restaurants, and specialty retail stores. Ideally, expanded airport operation will help drive growth in manufacturing, hospitality, and retail sectors and increase employment opportunities for area residents.”
Total project cost is $708,235. Based on timely funding, construction is anticipated during July-September 2018 with occupancy slated for October 2018. Because the Coshocton County Regional Airport Authority is a nonprofit public entity, donations to the project are tax deductible. For additional information about airport operations and the corporate hangar project, contact Bethel Toler at Coshocton Richard Downing Airport.
Category: Business
