Expanding Horizons: Corporate Hangar Construction Underway at Jimmy Stewart Airport

Indiana County’s Jimmy Stewart Airport is entering an exciting new phase with the construction of a 100×120-foot corporate hangar—an investment that will enhance aviation infrastructure and help drive future economic growth throughout the region.

The first phase of the Corporate Hangar Project at Indiana County’s Jimmy Stewart Airport is well underway, signaling a step forward for regional aviation and economic development. In November 2024, the Indiana County Commissioners approved a $2,996,300 agreement with HRI, Inc. to complete Phase 1 site work, which includes the construction of a hangar apron, taxiway, and parking lot. This foundational aviation infrastructure is being funded through a state grant and a separate Federal grant with both grants being administered by PennDOT Bureau of Aviation (BOA).

Approved by the Indiana County Commissioners in May 2025, the second phase of the project consists of the vertical construction of the new 12,000 square foot hangar is designed to accommodate larger corporate aircraft and support aviation-related business activity. The facility will include a pilot’s office, conference room, storage area, and an adjacent parking lot. Beyond simply providing aircraft storage, this hangar is being built with functionality and long-term utility in mind.

“This vote moved us into Phase Two,” said Indiana County Commissioners Chair Mike Keith. “We’re building more than a hangar—we’re building opportunity.”

Commissioner Bonni Dunlap added, “This is a centerpiece of our master plan to serve larger aircraft, attract aviation businesses, and support training programs.”

County Commissioner Sherene Hess remarked that an airport is “an economic asset in any community.”

The second phase of the project was awarded to the general contractor Francis J. Palo, Inc. of Clarion, with a construction contract totaling $2.289 million. Electrical, mechanical, and plumbing work will be managed by Leverknight Electric $135,720, MARC Service $250,875, and First American Industries $91,900, for a total project cost of $2,767,495.

Funding for the corporate hangar is being funded through two State grants, including the Pennsylvania Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) and a Commonwealth Financing Authority Multimodal Transportation Fund (CFA MTF) grant being administered by the Indiana County Office of Planning & Development. Local matching funds were also committed to leverage these Federal and State investments.

This significant capital project comes as the airport welcomes its new manager, Rodger Ewing, who assumed the role in July 2025. Ewing, a 20-year U.S. Air Force veteran and former operations manager at Pittsburgh International Airport, brings a strong background in logistics and public service. The airport is moving forward with plans to secure additional funding for future projects, including

Recent airport activity reflects a clear focus on infrastructure growth and aviation workforce development. Ewing is also working with Indiana University of Pennsylvania and local school districts to develop aviation STEM programming and training partnerships aimed at preparing students for careers in aviation technology, maintenance, and flight operations.

With Phase 1 site construction progressing, Phase 2 hangar construction to commence later this year and a new Airport Manager, Jimmy Stewart Airport is positioning itself as a gateway to economic opportunity. These improvements not only enhance the airport’s operational capabilities but also support Indiana County’s broader goals of business attraction, job creation, and long-term infrastructure investment.

“The Airport Authority works diligently to prepare for Indiana County’s promising future,” said Tip Ruffner, Chair of the Indiana County Airport Authority. The airport currently supports general aviation, a flight school, and aircraft maintenance services—and this new corporate hangar represents the next step in its evolution.