Oklahoma Expands Aerospace Ambitions with $3.3 Million Terminal Upgrade and Industry Initiatives

Oklahoma’s aviation and aerospace sector is gaining fresh momentum as the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and several partner organisations unveil a series of major infrastructure and education projects across the state. The developments include a $3.3 million terminal upgrade in Ardmore, a runway expansion in Stroud, and ongoing efforts to promote workforce development and gender representation in aviation.

Major Airport Upgrades

Ardmore’s Downtown Executive Airport is to undergo a major transformation following six decades of service. The current terminal, now over 60 years old, will be demolished and replaced with a new facility more than twice its original size. The project, valued at $3.3 million, is being jointly supported by the ODAA, the City of Ardmore, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Officials marked the start of construction with a groundbreaking ceremony on 22 October 2025. The terminal will expand from 1,125 to 3,368 square feet and feature a lounge, office space, and modernised pilot amenities, including showers. The new building aims to serve as a modern gateway for business and leisure aviation, aligning with Oklahoma’s growing aerospace ambitions.

Elsewhere, Stroud Municipal Airport has also embarked on a significant infrastructure programme to widen and extend its primary runway. The ODAA joined city officials to commemorate the start of works on 17 September 2025. Runway 18/36 will be widened from 60 to 75 feet and extended from 3,000 to 4,000 feet, with rehabilitation works planned for the existing surface.

The improvements are designed to meet FAA standards, enhance safety, and enable larger aircraft operations. Additional upgrades include the installation of LED runway lighting and Precision Approach Path Indicators (PAPIs), improving pilot visibility and approach accuracy.

Political Support for Space and Aviation Growth

The state’s aerospace drive has also received attention at the political level. Senator Paul Rosino recently visited the Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority (OSIDA) at Burns Flat to assess progress since its integration into the ODAA under Senate Bill 912, enacted on 1 July 2025.

Rosino, who sponsored the legislation, praised the merger for reinforcing Oklahoma’s leadership in the space sector.

“Thank you to ODAA and the dedicated employees at the Air and Space Port for giving a tour of the facility, providing updates on tenant lease agreements, and sharing feedback on their experience since the merger,” Rosino said in a post to Facebook. “The Air and Space Port is truly one of our state’s greatest assets, and I look forward to continuing to support developments at this facility and within the agency to ensure Oklahoma remains a national leader in aerospace and aviation.”

Workforce and Education Initiatives

Beyond infrastructure, the ODAA continues to invest in developing the state’s aerospace workforce. Representatives attended the Oklahoma Aerospace Forum on 5 November 2025, where discussions focused on advanced air mobility, automation, and small business applications.

Education and outreach remain key components of the agency’s mission. On 4 November 2025, Paula Kedy, Oklahoma’s Statewide Aerospace STEM Manager, spoke to members of the Women in Aviation International chapter at Oklahoma State University. Kedy outlined ODAA’s efforts to engage secondary schools and foster aviation interest among young people.

More than 30 students attended the session, which also featured an OSU pilot sharing her experience volunteering with Angel Flight, an organisation providing compassionate care flights. The meeting highlighted the enthusiasm and dedication of young women aspiring to aviation careers.

Two days later, ODAA Aviation Programme Managers Thomas Galloway and Nancy Chaney attended the University of Oklahoma’s Career and Intern Fair, engaging students about internship opportunities and pathways into the state’s aerospace industry.

Supporting Future Talent

The agency’s commitment to inclusion and recognition continues with preparations for the ninth annual Oklahoma Women in Aviation and Aerospace Day Luncheon, scheduled for 12 December 2025 at AAR’s Hangar 4. Organised in partnership with the Oklahoma Aerospace Foundation, the event honours industry contributors and offers professional development for attendees from commercial, military, and educational backgrounds.

Sponsors are being sought to support the initiative, which encourages the next generation of explorers and innovators.

Meanwhile, ODAA has named its October Aerospace Students of the Month, recognising Caroline Chapman of Deer Creek High School for her mentorship and commitment to aviation, and Jaxon Hill of Wright City High School for leadership and dedication within his programme.

Continuing Growth

Looking ahead, the ODAA has issued two requests for qualifications — one for pavement inspections across state airports, and another for creating an infrastructure management system for the Oklahoma Air and Space Port in Burns Flat. Submissions are due by 14 November 2025.

Together, these developments underline Oklahoma’s strategic investment in aviation and aerospace infrastructure. By combining facility upgrades, workforce initiatives, and policy support, the state is positioning itself as a growing hub for the North American aerospace industry.