Wayne Executive Jetport is one of three general aviation airports in North Carolina that will undergo improvements, thanks to grants they were awarded from the Federal Aviation Administration.

The FAA’s Airport Improvement Program Supplemental Discretionary Grants promote sustainability and resiliency. They will be used to make critical upgrades to Wayne Executive Jet, the Davidson County Executive Airport, and the Hickory Regional Airport.

“This investment is a crucial step in ensuring that North Carolina’s airports are prepared for the future,” said Becca Gallas, director of the N.C. Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation. “By improving sustainability and resiliency, we are not only enhancing safety but also positioning our state to meet the demands of a rapidly changing aviation landscape.”

The Wayne Executive Jetport received $1 million to reconstruct its airfield drainage systems. The funds will address long-standing drainage issues on the north end of the airfield, which have caused taxiway flooding and halted operations during heavy rain. These improvements will enhance water flow and reduce the risk of flooding, ensuring continued operations during weather events.

“This upgrade is essential for ensuring we can continue to operate in all conditions,” said Gene Dawson, Wayne Executive Jetport manager. “The grant will enable us to safeguard the airport from future storms and keep our operations running smoothly.”

These grants align with North Carolina’s ongoing efforts to reduce emissions and promote clean transportation initiatives, supporting Governor Roy Cooper’s vision for a greener, more resilient transportation network.

The AIP Supplemental Discretionary Grant is part of a larger FAA initiative to modernize and improve airports across the U.S., with a focus on sustainability, resiliency, and safety.