Athens Airport Update
Spring 2006

V-22 Ospreys Operate from Athens-Ben Epps Airport


Four V-22 Ospreys from the VMMT-204 Squadron, recently operated from the Ben Epps Airport. Athens was used as a base of operations while they were conducting training in the North GA Mountains. VMMT-204 is training the first operational squadrons of the tilt rotor aircraft. The V-22's are designed to take-off and land like helicopters, but once airborne transition their engines for conventional flight. The Ospreys will use Athens for future training as we can offer military contract fuel, fire/rescue, precision approaches, and controlled airspace with radar.


Airport Projects Update - Check NOTAMS before flying.
  • Approach Obstruction Survey - We are currently conducting aerial approach obstruction surveys. The surveys will provide mapping that will be used to maintain the proper glide paths for all of our runways.

  • Environmental Assessment - The draft EA is complete and has been sent to the FAA for review. The EA is the first step in the runway 9/27 extension project. It will take several months for the FAA to complete their review. You can review a copy of the report at www.athensairport.net.

  • Landscaping and Signage - Shortly you should see work starting on the parking lot landscaping and new directional signage. ACC Landscape Management and the Community Tree Council are working with the airport on the landscaping. New directional signage will be installed from Ben Epps Drive throughout the new road and parking lot.
New Airport Businesses - We welcome the following new businesses to the Athens Airport. Nation Air Insurance located in the Athens Turboprop hangar and Falcon Aviation Academy located in Air Star's hangar.

Gate Operations - Thank you for taking the extra time to allow the gate to close behind you before you drive away from the gates. It is important for everyone on the airport to only allow authorized vehicles to enter the AOA.

Sun N Fun 2006 - Sun N Fun 2006 is April 4th - 10th. We hope that everyone has a chance to be a part of the festivities. Be safe and to help plan your trip you can visit www.sun-n-fun.org.
Think Safety, Fly Safely!

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