Athens Airport Update
Fall 2003

General Aviation - Executive Terminal Taking Shape

The new General Aviation - Executive Terminal is taking shape. Thanks to good weather the project is ahead of schedule and if all goes well should be complete in early spring. The building will feature a full size replica of Ben Epps first aircraft along with other Ben Epps memorabilia and an area showcasing Robert Armstrong's aerobatic accomplishments. Pilots will enjoy a private lounge, bunk room, bathroom w/shower and catering center. They will also have access to wireless internet connections and much more. If you would like to see a copy of the floor plan, one is posted in the Operations Office.


Airport Projects Update - Check NOTAMS before flying.
  • Terminal Re-roof - The contract for this project has been awarded to Whitsel Construction Co. A notice-to-proceed will be issued for November 1st and the project should take about 90 days to complete. The roof will match the roofs on the GA Terminal and the new fire station. The exterior will also be painted to match the other buildings. Once the roof and painting is complete, the building will be re-landscaped.
  • Entrance Road - The ACC commission will vote to start the design of this project at their November 4th meeting. The project will change Ben Epps Drive into a one-way loop road with new car parking, sidewalks and lighting. Construction should start next spring.
  • Fire Station - This project should follow the same schedule of the road project. The new fire station will be located between the tower and commercial terminal. It will be approximately 3,000sf with two bays, storage room, offices and rest room. The design of the building will match the exterior of the general aviation terminal.

Upcoming Projects - The airport and FBO's are planning several projects in the near future. They include construction of a new commercial facility south of runway 9/27, lengthening runway 9/27 by 1,000 feet and widening to 150 feet and rehabilitation of our transient ramp. In addition, two airport tenants plan to build new FBO hangars. The hangars will be approximately 12,000sf each and house maintenance facilities.

Airline News - Currently the Essential Air Service (EAS) program has requested proposals from airlines interested in providing air service for the Athens Airport. Two have given proposals; Mesa Air Group (US Airways Express) for an Athens-Charlotte route and Corporate Airlines (American Connection) for an Athens-Atlanta route. EAS is in negotiations with the airlines now and we hope to have a decision soon.

Security Gates - Just a reminder to those having codes to our security gates. Before driving away from the gate, let it close behind you. This will stop unauthorized vehicles from following you through the gates. Thank you.
"Please use standard NBAA Noise Abatement Procedures when operating at Athens- Ben Epps "

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