PONCA CITY, Okla. — Ponca City Regional Airport is preparing for a major infrastructure upgrade with a $14.3 million terminal project designed to modernize airport facilities, accommodate future aviation growth and strengthen economic development in north-central Oklahoma.
The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA), working with the City of Ponca City, scheduled a groundbreaking ceremony for Friday, October 30, 2026, bringing together state officials, local leaders and aviation representatives to mark the investment.
New Airport Terminal to Modernize Aviation Facilities
The planned 14,000-square-foot terminal will provide updated accommodations for pilots, passengers and visitors using Ponca City Regional Airport.
The development will also create space for a new aircraft apron, allowing the airport to better accommodate aircraft operations and support future expansion.
The investment represents a significant step in upgrading regional aviation infrastructure and improving the airport’s ability to serve businesses, private aviation operators and other users throughout northern Oklahoma.
Federal, State and Local Governments Share Project Costs
The $14.3 million airport improvement project is supported through a combination of federal, state and municipal funding.
The financial contributions include:
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$9.4 million from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
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$1 million from the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics.
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$3.9 million from the City of Ponca City.
A portion of the federal investment was secured through the congressional Community Project Funding (CPF) process.
U.S. Rep. Frank Lucas supported efforts to direct federal resources toward the airport’s infrastructure improvements.
The funding partnership highlights the role of coordinated government investment in maintaining and expanding aviation facilities that support regional transportation and economic activity.
Ponca City Regional Airport Contributes $27.4 Million Annually to Local Economy
Beyond improving airport operations, the terminal project is expected to support the area’s long-term economic development.
According to Oklahoma’s 2026 Aerospace and Defense Economic Impact Study, Ponca City Regional Airport currently supports 237 jobs and generates $27.4 million in annual economic activity.
That economic contribution has increased by more than $17 million since 2017, reflecting the airport’s growing importance to the region.
Aviation Investment Supports Regional Business Growth
Regional airports provide essential infrastructure for business aviation, transportation services and industries that depend on efficient air access.
For communities such as Ponca City, modern aviation facilities can contribute to business connectivity and help support existing employers while creating opportunities for future investment.
The proposed terminal and additional apron space are intended to position the airport to accommodate changing operational needs and continued aviation activity.
The project also aligns with Oklahoma’s broader aerospace and aviation development priorities, an important part of the state’s transportation and economic infrastructure.
Groundbreaking Ceremony Brings Together Oklahoma Leaders
State and local officials were scheduled to gather at Ponca City Regional Airport for a formal groundbreaking ceremony recognizing the terminal investment.
The event was set to begin at 10 a.m., with opening remarks and presentations from government and aviation representatives.
Ceremony Schedule and Location
Event: Ponca City Regional Airport Terminal Groundbreaking Ceremony
Location: 2213 N. Waverly St., Ponca City, OK 74601
The scheduled program included:
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10 a.m.: Welcome and formal remarks.
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10:30 a.m.: Conclusion of the formal program and departure for the groundbreaking site.
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10:40 a.m.: Ceremonial groundbreaking and photographs.
State and Local Officials Scheduled to Speak
The ceremony’s featured speakers included:
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Grayson Ardies, Executive Director, Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics.
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Bill Coleman, Republican state senator from Ponca City.
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Ken Luttrell, Republican state representative from Ponca City.
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Kelsey Wagner, Mayor of Ponca City.
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Craig Stephenson, Ponca City Manager, scheduled to deliver the welcome.
The event also offered opportunities to observe aircraft arrivals, view the future terminal construction site and interview elected officials and aviation leaders about the project’s economic significance.
New Terminal Marks Long-Term Investment in Oklahoma Aviation
The Ponca City Regional Airport terminal project represents a substantial investment in aviation infrastructure serving north-central Oklahoma.
With $14.3 million committed by federal, state and local partners, the planned facility will provide modern airport accommodations while creating additional capacity for future operations.
As the airport continues to contribute millions of dollars annually to the regional economy, the terminal development is intended to strengthen its role as a transportation asset and support Ponca City’s long-term economic growth.
