June 2025

Hello KAA Members and Friends, Thank you for your continued support and commitment to Kentucky aviation. We wanted to share a few important highlights from our May Board Meeting, held at the robust Sturgis Airport.

Key Actions from the May Meeting Include:

• Website Finalization – We’re putting the final touches on the airport directory and conference pages. Communication with our developer has been excellent, and we’re excited to unveil a modern, user-friendly platform soon!
• Regional Engagement – Board members from each region are actively meeting with airports across the state to discuss KAA’s direction. These conversations have opened valuable lines of communication. Constructive feedback is encouraged, and we’re listening.
• Executive Director Search – The search committee has identified several strong candidates. We welcome your recommendations as well. Recommendations/Resumes can be sent to: KYAirports@gmail.com. 

Mark Your Calendars – 2025 KAA Conference

Planning is underway for this year’s annual conference, set for October 22–24 in Owensboro, KY. The theme is “Soaring Forward,” and we’re actively seeking session topics that matter to you. If you have suggestions or would like to present, please reach out to the Conference Planning Committee. Let’s make this our most relevant and inspiring event yet.

New Website Coming Soon

The KAA website is expected to launch within the next few weeks! It will feature a member directory and streamlined conference registration. Stay tuned for access details.

Financial Transparency & Progress

The board remains committed to financial transparency as we grow. We’re actively evaluating the organization’s financial position to ensure thoughtful timing for hiring our next Executive Director.

A sincere thank you to the many airports that have already contributed financially – your support drives our momentum, and we’re dedicated to delivering a return on that investment.

Kentucky Department of Aviation Key Updates

• HB1 Grant Deadline Approaching – A reminder to all airport leaders: to receive the remainder of your $200,000 HB1 Grant, invoices must be submitted by June 30th. If you spending is not finalized, a general outline of intended use will suffice for now.
• The Statewide System Plan is active, and you participation is needed – The state held two conference calls in May, where 70% of airports attended. Danville-Boyle County will be the first airport to roll out this data collection. Airport visits from Kimley-Horn/Garver will continue through September.

We learned the importance of the last impact study the Department did for us – let’s commit to working alongside these partners who are investing in us!

Next Board Meeting: Capital City Airport

We’re looking forward to our next meeting at Capital City Airport, next Wednesday, June 25th. 

As always, we appreciate your involvement. We’re here to represent your interests and elevate aviation across the Commonwealth. Please don’t hesitate to contact us with questions or input.

Continued Board Member Vacancy

The West Airport District is still looking to fill a Board Member vacancy.  If you know of someone in this region who would be a good addition, please let us know.  We seek to have a well-rounded board with proper representation from each region. We have representation from the airports, let’s see if we can find a community partner to add value to the region!  

For more information about the Kentucky Aviation Association or to get involved, please contact kyairports@gmail.com