Changes are continuing to occur at Hannibal Regional Airport.

It wasn’t all that long ago that pilots could begin purchasing jet fuel at the airport after its fuel system was revamped. We believe this is an important addition as those overseeing the airport continue to try and meet the need of local and visiting pilots.
Now, to meet the needs of future pilots, ground school is being offered at the airport. While providing flight training is not a new offering at HRA, providing both aspects is a service that has long been lacking.
With the exception of multi-engine training, an assortment of learning opportunities for private pilots now exist at the airport. By next spring, glider operations could be available for those wishing to either fly or learn to fly those aircraft. There is also the potential of stationing a plane on floats on the Hannibal riverfront to provide yet another learning environment for pilots.
Mike Barron, who has been the manager at the airport since July 1, has helped facilitate these learning opportunities. Barron, who is also exploring the possibility of working with an area college or community college so that the airport’s flight training could be a part of its curriculum, believes making this education available will help enhance the overall use of the facility.
With plans in the works for a new airport terminal, and down the road an extended runway, it is good to see that dreams of additional development at our community’s airport has not been grounded due to a lack of vision.