Saratoga County Airport completed a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new terminal and hangar complex on June 26. The 40,500-square-foot (3,762-square-meter) facility replaces infrastructure dating to 1943 and houses fixed base operator North American Flight Services.
The project cost US$35.3 million through combined federal, state and county funding. New York State provided US$28.5 million through the Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition, while federal sources contributed nearly US$2 million and Saratoga County invested US$4.8 million.
Construction took 18 months to complete under oversight from McFarland Johnson, LeChase Construction Services, Murnane Construction and Callanan Industries. The heated hangar complex encompasses 20,000 square feet (1,858 square meters) and can accommodate aircraft up to Gulfstream G500 size.
“These enhancements were designed with pilots, crews and passengers in mind, offering the comfort, efficiency and capabilities today’s aviation professionals expect,” said Frank Zilka, owner of North American Flight Services.
The facility features a pilot lounge, on-site car rental services, an executive conference room with 20-person capacity, and office suites. A full-service restaurant called Alexi’s at the Airport will open this fall with runway views.
North American Flight Services operates as the airport’s exclusive fixed base operator, providing Jet A and 100LL fuel services. The company offers 24-hour self-serve 100LL fuel pumps, maintenance services, aircraft sales and management, plus comprehensive flight planning resources.
According to the company, customers receive rewards through the AVTRIP program and competitive pricing through Avfuel Contract Fuel arrangements. The facility has operated as an Avfuel-branded location since 2001.
The airport includes a helipad and weather services integration capabilities.
Phil Barrett, chairman of the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors, said the facility serves as a gateway to the local economy. “Our investment in the County Airport will help transform business and leisure travel and further support the airport’s annual economic impact to the county,” said Barrett.
According to New York State Department of Transportation survey data, the airport generates economic impact exceeding US$9.7 million annually. County officials anticipate the modernized facility will increase this figure through enhanced passenger amenities and expanded aviation services.
The previous facility consisted primarily of a hangar that functioned as office space, passenger waiting area, flight planning center and conference room. Saratoga County Department of Public Works sponsors the municipal airport while North American Flight Services handles daily operations and management.
The terminal complex positions Saratoga County Airport as a regional general aviation hub serving the Capital Region of New York. The facility incorporates energy-efficient systems and sustainable design elements throughout its construction.
