The future of the Charlotte County Airport is, in part, contained in the Airport Master Plan, an important document prepared under the direction of the Airport Authority. It is revised every five-years and looks 20 years into the future. The Master Plan is based on past performance, current operations, and future projections. It also incorporates community demographics and needs, anticipated population growth, and economic indicators. The Master Plan reflects a vision for the future of the Airport in the community.
Based on extensive studies, the Authority concluded that the following priorities are necessary:
- Extension of Runway 4-22 (formerly 3-21)
- Installation of an ILS and MALSR to provide precisions approach capability for Runway 4-22
- Ultimate closure of Runway 9-27
- Development of landside facilities in the infield area between Runways 4-22 and 15-33
- Construction of an Air Traffic Control Tower
- Other landside and airside development, such as taxiway construction
Achieving these goals depends on the financial stability of the airport. Financial stability rests on the ability to attract new business while retaining current businesses at the airport. Through diversification within the aviation industry, support of general aviation, and marketing both aviation and non-aviation properties to potential tenants, and seeking the future potential of commercial service, the Airport will not only survive its current challenges, but will continue its service as an economic catalyst for the county.
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