Aviation Advisory Board - October 8, 2026

The Citrus County Aviation Advisory Board met on October 8, 2026. The aviation project manager reported that several FDOT grant items were scheduled to go before the Board of County Commissioners on October 13: design for Crystal River pavement rehabilitation, a subsequent construction project for taxi lanes and portions of the aprons, and additional matched funding for the AWAS project at both airports. The AWAS bid had exceeded the budget, so the funding amendment must be executed before a contractor can be selected. An airport security project involving cameras, gate-operator replacements, and badge access was also discussed. Other project updates included the Crystal River fuel-tank replacement, reported 60% complete and on track for completion by the end of January; a corporate hangar at 100% design and expected to proceed to bid; and a bathroom remodel awaiting finalized design. Airport signage concepts had been reviewed by the commissioners but not approved; the board requested a design update at its November meeting. No contract award or new spending approval was made by this board.

The board passed a motion supporting the reestablishment of a Civil Air Patrol unit in Citrus County and asking its representatives to coordinate with the aviation project manager on possible operating locations and arrangements; no funding commitment was made. Members also discussed hangar demand and the financial considerations for future construction. A presentation on FAA airport compliance covered requirements affecting airport revenues, rates and rents, leases, non-aeronautical land use, and development approvals—requirements that may shape future airport leases and vendor opportunities.