07/01/2026
𝘽𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙩 𝙈𝙪𝙣𝙞𝙘𝙞𝙥𝙖𝙡 𝘼𝙞𝙧𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙩 𝙠𝙚𝙚𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙥𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙜𝙧𝙤𝙬𝙩𝙝
By Martelle Luedecke
Contributing Writer
From aircraft stopping to refuel to business travelers, recreational pilots, emergency response flights, and military visitors, activity at Burnet Municipal Airport (Kate Craddock Field) continues to climb. The facility has reached new heights in opportunities for both aviation and the local economy, officials say.
Outgoing Airport Manager Adrienne Feild says the increase has been gradual but noticeable over the past year. Feild recently announced her retirement and graciously shared with the Bulletin the progress she has seen during her tenure.
"We've seen a steady increase in aircraft activity at Burnet Municipal Airport," Feild said. "We began noticing more transient aircraft, increased fuel sales, and more overall activity on the airfield. It's encouraging to see because it reflects both the growth occurring in the Hill Country and the airport's reputation as a welcoming place for pilots to stop."
That growth comes from a variety of users. Recreational pilots remain an important part of the airport community, while business aviation, cross-country travelers, aviation events, and military operations all contribute to the increasing number of arrivals and departures.
"One of the unique things about Burnet Municipal Airport is the diversity of users we serve," Feild said.
The airport's ability to accommodate everything from small private aircraft to larger business and military aviation has helped establish Burnet as a convenient stop in Central Texas. Pilots also benefit from aviation services provided by Crosby Flying Services and C3 Airworks while enjoying quick access to restaurants, lodging, shopping, and attractions throughout Burnet and the Highland Lakes.
Every aircraft that lands has an economic impact beyond the airport.
"Whether they're stopping for fuel, grabbing a meal, staying overnight, attending an event or conducting business, those visits support local businesses and contribute to our economy," Feild explained.
To keep pace with demand, the City of Burnet has continued investing in airport infrastructure. The airport was originally dedicated and opened in 1961. Recent improvements include airfield pavement maintenance, construction of a new hangar access road, and completion of a near-12,000 square foot box hangar. While current facilities continue meeting operational needs, hangar demand remains strong, and airport officials continue evaluating opportunities for future development.
The airport works closely with the FAA, TxDOT Aviation, aviation businesses, tenants and pilots, to maintain safe operations through ongoing maintenance, infrastructure improvements and communication with the aviation community, she explained.
As with any transportation facility, increased activity occasionally brings concerns about aircraft noise, particularly from helicopters or military operations. Feild said airport users are encouraged to operate responsibly whenever possible while recognizing the important public services the airport provides.
Beyond serving travelers, Burnet Municipal Airport also plays a critical role in emergency preparedness.
"I think many people would be surprised by how much happens at the airport beyond aircraft coming and going," Feild said. "The airport supports medical flights, emergency response operations, business travel, local aviation businesses and is home to the Highland Lakes Squadron of the Commemorative Air Force. Through events, education, and aircraft preservation, the CAF helps connect our community to an important part of America's aviation heritage."
The airport also serves as a gateway to Burnet, strengthening regional connectivity while introducing visitors to local businesses, attractions, and community events.
Looking ahead, Feild sees continued thoughtful growth.
"Our focus is making thoughtful investments that meet the needs of today's users while positioning the airport for future opportunities," she said. "Whether through additional hangar development, infrastructure improvements, or new aviation-related investment, we're building a strong foundation for the future."
For many residents, the airport is a familiar part of the community, but its role extends far beyond the aircraft seen arriving and departing. Each day it quietly supports commerce, emergency services, tourism, aviation history, and economic development while connecting Burnet with destinations across Texas and beyond.
As Feild summed it up, "There's an old aviation saying that a mile of highway can only take you a mile, but a mile of runway can take you anywhere."
"Our airport helps connect Burnet to opportunities well beyond our city, and that's something our community can be proud of."
Crosby Flying Services LLC
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