Virginia-based Averett University has taken over FBO operations at Danville Regional Airport following the conclusion of an RFP process initiated by the city of Danville. After the lease on the facility expired, the incumbent that operated the FBO since 1948 was not selected for renewal.
The university, which held its grand opening late last month for the location under the AU Aviation Services name, has had a presence on the field for four decades, with its aeronautics degree program and flight school based at the George J. Falk Flight Operations Center adjacent to the private terminal.
According to general manager John Earl, the 2,000-sq-ft terminal received a facelift over the past several months. It includes passenger and pilot lounges, a snooze room, two conference rooms, showers, and a flight-planning area. The location has a 2,700-sq-ft hangar that can accommodate a light jet or turboprop.
Earl told AIN that the facility is set for a major renovation starting in the first half of next year. It will incorporate the former commercial passenger area, which has been unused since airline traffic ceased at the airport in the late 1990s. That project, which will add nearly 1,000 sq ft to the FBO terminal, is slated for completion by mid-2023.
“This transition gives us the opportunity to maximize growth in our aeronautics program, which is projected to almost double its enrollment within the next four years,” said university president Dr. Tiffany Franks. “This FBO will serve as a fully integrated, hands-on learning lab for our students.”
- Business Aviation