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- Ogden-Hinckley Airport on Monday broke ground on a $4.4-million terminal expansion project.
- The project, funded by FAA grants and city funds, aims to improve facilities by the end of this year.
OGDEN — Ogden-Hinckley Airport's terminal is expanding.
City leaders, airport executives and other dignitaries braved the cold Monday to celebrate the start of a $4.4 million project that they believe will enhance the experience of flying in and out of the airport originally constructed in the 1950s.
A mix of Federal Aviation Administration grants and city funds is covering the cost. The city's project includes a new entrance to the terminal, as well as expanded drop-off and pick-up loading zones, better pedestrian access and a baggage claim area that's finally indoors.
Construction is expected to be completed in the fall. Ogden Mayor Ben Nadolski said he believes the changes will make the facility look "more professional" and "inviting" for people flying in and out.
Airport Director Brian Condie told KSL-TV he believes it might also help attract more airlines or routes.
Monday's ceremony comes nearly a year after Breeze Airways began operating out of the airport, restoring commercial service lost after Allegiant Air and Avelo Airlines pulled out of the airport in 2022. However, the Utah-based airline only offers flights to John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana, California, at the moment.
A state audit released in April last year found the airport lost money 17 years in a row, and auditors called for better plans for the airport to reverse the streak. The airport has also been the focus of lawsuits from hangar owners upset over redevelopment efforts.
City leaders called the audit "precise and helpful" at the time. Nearly a year later, they say the new expansion project is just the beginning as the airport grows.
"This is the first step in many," he said. "This airport has a really bright future. This community has a really bright future; this entire region of Utah has a bright future, and this airport is going to play a significant role."
Contributing: Daniel Woodruff
