News Summary
Kinetic Aviation is set to enhance its operations at Richard B. Russell Regional Airport with a new 80-foot-by-100-foot hangar, scheduled for completion in fall 2023. This expansion will allow the company to manage a growing fleet of Eclipse jets more effectively, providing dedicated office and workshop space and accommodating up to eight aircraft. The new hangar also addresses current limitations and is expected to boost local aviation services and the economy.
Rome, Georgia – Kinetic Aviation Enhances Operations with New Hangar at Richard B. Russell Regional Airport
Kinetic Aviation is expanding its operations at the Richard B. Russell Regional Airport with the construction of a new 80-foot-by-100-foot hangar, set to be completed by fall 2023. This new facility aims to accommodate the growing needs of the company, which specializes in the maintenance of Eclipse jets.
The current setup limits Kinetic Aviation to a smaller hangar that can only house two aircraft. The new hangar will have the capacity to hold up to eight aircraft, significantly increasing the company’s ability to service its growing fleet. Additionally, the interior will feature dedicated office and workshop space specifically designed for the maintenance of Eclipse jets. With 22-foot doors, the hangar will allow for easier access for larger aircraft compared to the current limitations.
Manager Paul White noted that the expansion is crucial for the company’s growth, emphasizing that they are unable to hire additional staff or expand their business until the new hangar is operational. Kinetic Aviation, which specializes in the maintenance of Eclipse jets, currently services about 50 of these aircraft.
Impact on Local Aviation Services
The addition of Kinetic Aviation is expected to boost the local economy by increasing fuel sales at the Richard B. Russell Regional Airport. The airport is already notable as the largest aviation facility located north of Atlanta’s Hartsfield International Airport. Recently, the airport completed a 1,000-foot extension of its runway, bringing the total length to 7,000 feet to accommodate larger aircraft, further enhancing its capacity and operational efficiency.
Neighboring Aviation Operations
Nearby, L&M Aircraft—managed by Larry and Al Owen—provides maintenance and inspections for various aircraft. Established in 1977, L&M Aircraft specializes in servicing privately owned aircraft, often co-owned by groups, including professionals like doctors. Larry Owen, who received the prestigious Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award in 2023, has a lifetime of experience in aviation maintenance, dating back to his work with KC-135s in the Air Force and obtaining an Airframe and Powerplant license in 1971.
Only about 100 individuals in Georgia have earned the Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award, making Owen the first recipient in Floyd County, underscoring the high standards and commitment to quality in the local aviation community.
Historical Context of Richard B. Russell Regional Airport
The Richard B. Russell Regional Airport has a rich history, having been developed in 1942 and serving as an auxiliary base for the U.S. Navy during World War II. Today, the airport not only caters to general aviation but also serves as the location for the Georgia Northwestern Technical College’s Aviation Training Center, where students can receive training in aviation maintenance technology, further enhancing the region’s aviation resources.
With ongoing developments like the new Kinetic Aviation hangar and the recent runway extension, Richard B. Russell Regional Airport is poised to strengthen its role as a pivotal hub for aviation in the region, supporting both commercial endeavors and training for the next generation of aviators.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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