HARRISBURG – The Reading Regional/Carl A. Spaatz Field Airport will receive $1.5 million of state funds to construct a hangar and office building for the fixed based operator at the airport, according to Sen. Chris Gebhard (R-48).
The airport originally served as an Army Air Force training airfield. In addition to military activity, it also supports corporate and business activity, air charter, training, aerial inspection and pipeline patrol, and recreational flights to Orlando via Southwest Airlines. Additionally, it provides a base of operation for Quest Diagnostic and its 24 aircrafts that are used for transporting medical specimens.
“I am proud that my efforts to advocate for this funding paid off because the airport provides convenience and good-paying jobs to the region,” Gebhard said. “The funding will be used to jumpstart construction of a hangar that can house corporate aircraft and grow the customer base of the new facilities.”
Pennsylvania’s aviation industry employs more than 226,000 people, provides nearly $12.5 billion in payroll and employment benefits and has a $34 billion annual economic impact. In addition to providing travel options, airports also facilitate services such as air cargo and freight, police and law enforcement, emergency medical services, firefighting, and disaster and emergency response.
The project will be funded by the state capital budget through the Aviation Transportation Assistance Program, which is supported by bonds.
CONTACT: Alex Gamble