The FAA has reclassified Bessemer Municipal Airport (KEKY) in Alabama as a national airport, “marking a significant development in the airport’s role in the National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS),” according to officials with the Bessemer Airport Authority.
Officials note the NPIAS includes 3,287 public use aviation facilities across the U.S. KEKY is one of only 122 General Aviation airports to be awarded the national airport designation.
“This national airport reclassification elevates KEKY’s status, acknowledging its service of connecting communities nationwide, supporting passenger travel, air cargo, and flight training,” they said.
“This is a monumental step forward for our city,” added Mayor Kenneth E. Gulley. “The reclassification of the Bessemer Municipal Airport as a national airport will not only expand its operational capabilities, but also catalyze economic development in our area.”
The reclassification is expected to attract more based aircraft and increase the frequency of transient flights, boosting the economic impact of the airport, airport authority officials said.
The national airport designation also provides additional federal funding for the airport, which has served general aviation for 50 years, they added.
The reclassification process involved analysis by the FAA, including a review of KEKY’s safety record, number of based aircraft, historical airport usage and potential for growth.
For more information: BessemerAirportAuthority.com