Ford Airport in Iron Mountain Experiences Hangar Boom with Growing Business
Ford Airport has more than tripled in size over the last 20 years, according to airport manager Tim Howen, as the number of hangars and based aircraft continues to climb.
Growth and Expansion
The airport now boasts over 25 hangars on-site, with more under construction. Howen attributes this growth to the airport's welcoming atmosphere and the friendly relationships among its users.
“When people are enjoying a spot, the word gets around. They don’t mind paying the same as somewhere else as long as it’s a friendly atmosphere. You have people of like-minded interest, it’s infectious,” Howen shared.
Benefits for Local Businesses
CSA Air, a FedEx regional partner operating for over 40 years, has seen significant advantages from the airport's growth. Todd Silverstone, general manager and director of operations for CSA Air, noted:
“Ford Airport has been incredibly good at growing and attracting more people. The projects they are taking on to create more room certainly helps our business... It gives us more options.”
Two new private hangars, including the largest ever built on the property, are currently under construction, further emphasizing the airport's expansion.
Broader Economic Growth
Mindy Urban, executive director of the Dickinson Area Economic Development Alliance, believes the airport's expansion reflects the broader economic growth in Dickinson County.
"I think we’ve had a lot of growth in the Dickinson area in the last year or so, and seeing all the development at Ford Airport is an indicator of all that growth in the county," Urban stated.
To summarize, Ford Airport in Iron Mountain is experiencing a boom in hangar space and aircraft based there, contributing to the broader economic growth of the region.