The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) has completed a series of infrastructure upgrades across its airport network, marking a significant step forward in improving safety, operational capacity and service provision during the first quarter of 2026.
The projects, delivered under the state’s five-year Airport Construction Program (ACP), reflect a coordinated effort between the ODAA, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and local authorities. Together, these stakeholders aim to strengthen Oklahoma’s aviation ecosystem as a driver of business activity, regional connectivity and long-term economic growth.
The ACP is designed to develop a resilient and efficient airport system capable of supporting both commercial and general aviation. The latest round of completed works highlights targeted investments in safety enhancements, hangar capacity expansion and upgraded fuel infrastructure.
Safety improvements at Chandler Regional Airport
At Chandler Regional Airport, safety has been prioritised through the completion of a $337,000 fencing project aimed at mitigating wildlife risks and improving ground access control. The scheme includes 3,000 linear feet of chain-link fencing, more than 8,000 linear feet of specialised wildlife barriers, and a newly installed sliding entrance gate.
Funding for the project was led by the ODAA, which contributed $321,000, with the remaining $16,000 provided by the City of Chandler. The upgrade is expected to reduce operational hazards and improve the overall safety of aircraft movements on the ground.
Expanding capacity through hangar development
A key focus of the ACP has been addressing a shortage of aircraft storage across the state, an issue that has constrained growth in general aviation activity. In response, the ODAA has overseen hangar construction projects at two regional airports.
At Carnegie Municipal Airport, four new 2,500 sq-ft box hangars have been completed as part of a $1.2 million investment. The project was funded through a combination of $523,000 from the ODAA, $640,000 from the FAA and $65,000 from the Town of Carnegie. The additional hangar space is expected to support increased aircraft basing and generate new revenue streams for the airport.
Meanwhile, Boise City Airport has added a new eight-unit T-hangar facility, delivered at a total cost of $1.14 million. Funding contributions included $455,000 from the ODAA, $626,000 from the FAA and $57,000 from the City of Boise City. The development provides flexible storage options for smaller aircraft and is expected to improve operational efficiency while supporting local aviation demand.
Modernising fuel infrastructure in Goldsby
Further investment has been directed towards enhancing service capabilities at David Jay Perry Airport in Goldsby. The airport has replaced its ageing fuel storage system with a modern self-service 100LL fuel installation, improving accessibility for pilots and streamlining refuelling operations.
The project, valued at nearly $561,000, was jointly funded by the ODAA, which contributed approximately $280,000, alongside around $202,000 from the FAA and just over $78,000 from the Town of Goldsby. The upgrade is expected to improve reliability and service standards, making the airport more attractive to both transient and based aircraft operators.
Strategic investment in economic growth
The latest infrastructure developments underscore the state’s broader ambition to position aviation as a cornerstone of economic expansion. By improving safety, increasing storage capacity and modernising facilities, the ODAA aims to create an environment that attracts investment, supports business aviation and sustains employment.
“Bolstering Oklahoma’s pro-growth aviation infrastructure is a direct investment in our economic future,” said Nick Young, ODAA Airports Division manager. “These upgrades ensure our state remains a top-tier destination for aerospace commerce, anchoring private capital and sustaining high-paying jobs for our workforce.”
The completion of these projects signals continued momentum within Oklahoma’s aviation sector, with further developments expected as the ACP progresses. Collectively, the upgrades demonstrate how targeted public investment can enhance regional infrastructure while reinforcing the role of aviation in supporting economic resilience and growth.
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