The Mount Airy/Surry County Airport Authority has taken a significant step toward enhancing its operations by approving negotiations to bring Talon Aviation’s flight training school to its facility. This decision comes as the airport continues construction on a new multimillion-dollar terminal expected to open by Thanksgiving 2023. The relocation of Talon Aviation, which currently operates from Twin Lakes Airport in Advance, is anticipated to bolster both air traffic and local pilot development.
During a recent meeting, the Surry County Board of Commissioners, acting as the Airport Authority, voted unanimously to empower airport manager George Crater to negotiate a one-year contract with Talon Aviation. The flight school plans to move two of its three aircraft and most of its operations to Mount Airy once the new terminal is operational. “We felt very confident that they would be a really good fit with us at the airport,” Crater stated. He expressed optimism about the increased traffic that Talon Aviation would bring to the facility.
With over five years of experience, Talon Aviation employs four certified flight instructors and operates three aircraft. Currently renting hangar space at Mount Airy, the flight school aims to transition to the new 9,500-square-foot terminal, which will also include expanded passenger services and offices for the Surry County Economic Development Partnership. The airport’s status as North Carolina’s third-largest general aviation facility by economic impact is underscored by the facility’s annual contribution of $741 million to the local economy. It supports 2,275 jobs and generates $35.8 million in state and local taxes, according to the state’s 2025 aviation report.
The inclusion of Talon Aviation aligns with the airport’s recent growth, highlighted by a 35% increase in fuel sales over the past year. Financial reports presented by former Surry County Finance Officer Laura Neely indicate that the airport is performing well financially, allowing it to pursue new opportunities. “Overall, we’re looking pretty good at the airport,” Neely commented.
Positive Impact on Local Economy
The addition of a flight training school is expected to enhance the airport’s appeal, attracting more aircraft and passengers to the Mount Airy area. Blake Moyer, president and CEO of the Surry County Economic Development Partnership, noted that Talon Aviation’s presence would bring new visitors and traffic to the airport, allowing them to appreciate the beauty of the surrounding landscape from above. He emphasized that establishing a flight school at the airport would also introduce two additional aircraft, fostering connections between new pilots and the airport.
Airport Authority Chair Bill Goins remarked that “the flight school will expand opportunities and add to the great things that are happening at the Mount Airy/Surry County Airport.” Commissioner Van Tucker, who initiated the motion to approve the negotiations, confirmed that Crater will present a preliminary contract to the authority for review before it receives final approval. The authority’s next meeting is scheduled for September 15, 2023.
The introduction of flight training services is poised to further boost traffic at the airport, where larger jets are increasingly stopping for fuel and services. Crater pointed out that the enhanced amenities of the new terminal are designed to attract more aircraft and their passengers. Features such as seating areas, relaxation spaces for pilots, and on-site food availability will cater to travelers’ needs and enhance potential revenue growth.
Crater highlighted that the increase in jet traffic is linked to both tourism and business. As traffic from these sectors continues to grow, the airport will become more of a destination for various aircraft, contributing positively to the local community. The anticipated collaboration between Talon Aviation and the Mount Airy/Surry County Airport represents a promising development for the region’s aviation landscape and its broader economic health.
