ROCK SPRINGS — Southwest Wyoming Regional Airport continued its ascent in 2018.
In July, the airport hosted Wyoming Gov. Matt Mead during a ribbon-cutting ceremony to show-off the completed general aviation terminal and hangar.
Mead attributed its success to the work ethic of Airport Director Devon Brubaker and Sweetwater County, the Rocket-Miner reported.
“It’s a can-do county that can get so much done,” Mead said.
Brubaker was able to acquire grants from the Wyoming Business Council, Federal Aviation Administration’s Improvement Program and Wyoming Department of Transportation’s Aeronautics Division to make the improvements.
Other things that took place in 2018 include:
“This airport is in an excellent position to compete both regionally and nationally,” Brubaker said. “We have land ready for development, we have robust airfield infrastructure, we have an unparalleled highway and rail system at our doorstep, and we support global industry in our community — but our brand is not recognized in the global marketplace.”
In November 2018, the airport saw an increase in passenger numbers for the 23rd month in a row.
Through November, RKS has served 43,280 passengers, which would put it on pace to reach 47,750 passengers for calendar year 2018. This would be highest annual total since 2012 when the airport had six daily flights to three destinations, the release states.
“It is an exciting time for our region as our customers have proven that there is a demand for increased air service in Southwest Wyoming,” Brubaker said in the release.
Brubaker announced plans in 2018 to modernize the airport’s commercial terminal.