Report highlights airport industry in Central Kentucky

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The Kentucky Department of Aviation (KDA) will soon release a report providing a regional growth strategy for Central Kentucky’s airport system.

The Lexington Regional Aviation System Plan will supplement the state’s 2017 aviation plan.

“The Lexington Regional Aviation System Plan is more than a transportation study — it is a framework for long-term air travel and economic development in Central Kentucky,” Todd Bloch, KDA commissioner, said. “This process will help us plan for smart growth for Kentucky’s No.1 export, within this region of the commonwealth.”

Three key areas will help the state consider a range of improvements at each airport in the regional system. The areas include current and recommended airport roles, capacity, and any infrastructure gaps to meet existing and future growth in aviation and alternatives to address the gaps.

There are seven airports within Central Kentucky: Bluegrass Airport in Lexington, Capital City Airport in Frankfort, Central Kentucky Regional Airport in Richmond, Cynthiana-Harrison County Airport in Cynthiana, Danville-Boyle County Regional Airport in Danville, Georgetown-Scott County Regional Airport in Georgetown, and Mt. Sterling-Montgomery County Airport in Mt. Sterling.

A public meeting is planned for early next year, and the state will host a series of meetings with county officials, business leaders, and airport representatives.