04/21/2026
**Airport Update – April 2026**
Here’s a quick update on where things stand at the airport, starting with the sponsorship transition.
The sponsorship change documents are still under review at FAA Headquarters, with no update as of 4/14/26. In the meantime, we’re working closely with Village legal counsel, our consulting team, and the Colfax County Attorney to finalize the real property transfer agreement. One key point: the existing encumbrances tied to past federal grant matching funds will remain in place, and we will assume them. This allows us to continue using that land for future grants—our plan is to maintain this approach until the airport becomes fully self-sufficient.
**Financial Overview**
Revenue is down compared to 2024 and 2025 (see the 4/14 Council meeting), but still within an acceptable range given the challenges this winter. The biggest impacts have been largely outside our control, including a second consecutive poor ski season, along with ongoing maintenance and upgrade needs.
**Facility Improvements & Projects**
* The terminal refresh completed last year continues to receive great feedback from returning visitors.
* The hangar is in excellent condition and currently full, with all 6 spaces leased. Great work by Kris and Ryan keeping things in top shape.
* Runway lighting upgrades are nearly complete. This includes a new PAPI (Precision Approach Path Indicator) system and reactivating the airport beacon for the first time in over a decade. We are taking all legally possible steps to minimize light impact on the community.
* Hangar door replacement (60’ x 20’ bifold) is on track for completion by May 31.
* Fuel containment pad and pump covering are expected to be finished by the end of May.
Once the sponsorship transfer is finalized, we’ll move forward with leasing land for private hangars. Lease agreements are nearly ready and will be shared soon.
**Upcoming Grant Priorities**
* Terminal bathroom and hangar wash station upgrades (including ADA compliance)
* Taxiway E reinforcement and rebuild
* FAA Master Plan
* Instrument approach study for Runway 35 (RNP)
We’re also evaluating the old terminal building—restoring power, checking the well, and assessing costs to make it usable. Its future use will be determined by the Advisory Committee.
**Website & Air Service**
Ryan Halwani is currently training to manage the KAXX website. It’s built and in final polishing stages, with a target launch by Memorial Day.
We’re also preparing the next grant application to continue Advanced Air service. This involves coordination between Village staff, tourism, Advanced Air, the resort, and our state lobbyist. A key factor will be the sponsorship status. If the transfer isn’t complete by the June 20 deadline, we’ll move forward with a Joint Powers Agreement with the County.
**Fuel Farm Update (100LL) **
We recently made the decision to temporarily stop selling 100LL fuel due to changes in fuel certification timelines and lower-than-expected usage. The tank was drained, cleaned, and fully inspected—something that had not been done previously. It passed inspection with no issues and is now recertified.
Moving forward:
* We’ll resume 100LL service before Memorial Day
* New policy: smaller fuel orders (approx. 2,000 gallons at a time) to meet turnover requirements and reduce risk
**Closing**
There’s a lot happening across the airport, and we remain open for business throughout it all. We encourage everyone to stop by, see the progress firsthand, and reach out with any questions. Transparency and service to our community and visitors remain our top priorities.
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