Construction continues on a new multimillion-dollar terminal project at the Mount Airy/Surry County Airport. In a recent development, the Airport Authority unanimously approved negotiations with Talon Aviation to relocate its flight training operations to the facility. This move could significantly enhance air traffic and boost local pilot development.
The Surry County Board of Commissioners, which serves as the Airport Authority, authorized airport manager George Crater to negotiate a one-year contract with the flight school based in Davie County. Talon Aviation plans to transfer two of its three aircraft and most of its operations to Mount Airy, coinciding with the anticipated opening of the new terminal this fall.
Crater expressed confidence in Talon Aviation’s fit for the airport, stating, “They’re moving a lot of students and we’re excited. We think this will be a lot of traffic at the airport.” Talon Aviation, currently located at Twin Lakes Airport in Advance, has five years of experience, employing four certified flight instructors and operating three aircraft. The company already rents hangar space at Mount Airy and intends to occupy the existing terminal until the new 9,500-square-foot facility opens, expected by Thanksgiving 2023.
Economic Impact and Growth Potential
The proposed flight school aligns with the airport’s status as the state’s third-largest general aviation facility in terms of economic impact. According to the state’s 2025 aviation report, the airport generates $741 million annually and supports 2,275 jobs, while contributing $35.8 million in state and local taxes.
The airport has experienced significant growth recently, with fuel sales increasing by 35% over the past year. Former Surry County Finance Officer Laura Neely presented budget reports indicating a strong financial performance through June, supporting the airport’s capacity to pursue new ventures. “Overall, we’re looking pretty good at the airport,” Neely remarked.
The new terminal will not only enhance passenger services but will also house offices for the Surry County Economic Development Partnership. Crater noted that collaboration between airports and economic development organizations has yielded benefits for both parties throughout the state.
Community Benefits and Future Prospects
Blake Moyer, president and CEO of the Surry County Economic Development Partnership, emphasized the advantages of Talon Aviation’s arrival, describing it as a new asset for the community. “Bringing in new people and traffic to the airport allows them to see from the sky the beauty of the surrounding area,” he stated. Moyer highlighted that having a flight school at the airport will not only base two more airplanes but also connect new pilots with the airport, potentially increasing the fleet of private jets hosted in Surry County.
Airport Authority Chair Bill Goins remarked, “The flight school will expand opportunities and add to the great things that are happening at the Mount Airy/Surry County Airport.” The motion to approve negotiations was made by Commissioner Van Tucker, who confirmed that Crater will return to the authority with a preliminary contract for review before final approval. The authority’s next meeting is scheduled for September 15, 2023.
The addition of flight training services is expected to further enhance traffic at the airport. Crater noted that larger jets increasingly stop for fuel and services, a trend that the new terminal’s enhanced amenities are designed to support. With features such as seating areas, relaxation zones for pilots, and on-site food availability, the terminal aims to attract more aircraft and their passengers to the Mount Airy area.
Crater highlighted that the growing jet traffic results from both tourism and business activities, which together will help establish the airport as a more prominent destination. This development not only promises to enhance the airport’s profile but also benefits the entire community.
