Step into the cockpit of Statesville's economic engine as Airport Manager John Ferguson takes us behind the scenes of one of North Carolina's busiest general aviation facilities. Far from being just a landing strip, the Statesville Regional Airport operates as a thriving enterprise that generates substantial revenue through fuel sales, hangar leases, and property taxes - all without costing taxpayers a dime.

You'll be surprised to discover the airport's remarkable celebrity guest list, which includes country stars George Strait and Kane Brown, alongside rapper DaBaby. Even more impressive is the facility's crucial role in NASCAR operations, dispatching 13 fifty-passenger jets each race weekend to transport 600-700 team members across the country. This specialized aviation hub has positioned itself at the intersection of transportation and economic development, with the recent Westar (formerly JetEast) maintenance facility bringing 120+ skilled jobs to the region.

The conversation explores exciting developments including the new three-story terminal building scheduled to open in December, potentially featuring a restaurant with observation deck dining—what pilots affectionately call a "$100 hamburger" destination. Looking toward the future, Ferguson outlines ambitious plans for runway extension, control tower development, and enhanced emergency response capabilities that will continue elevating Statesville's aviation profile. Whether you're an aviation enthusiast or simply curious about economic development, this eye-opening discussion reveals how strategic infrastructure investment creates ripples of prosperity throughout the community. Next time you hear jets overhead, remember you're witnessing Statesville's gateway to global business in action.