Soaring Skies + Community Connections: Celebrating National Aviation Week at Statesville Regional Airport

Statesville, North Carolina | August 19, 2023

The thrill of flight, the freedom of the skies – National Aviation Week, August 19-25, 2023, is once again upon us, a time to honor the wonders of aviation and the places that make it all possible.

Among these remarkable places is the Statesville Regional Airport (SVH), a beacon of aviation excellence that has been serving both the community and the skies for nearly eight decades.

A Legacy of Flight

March of 1940 marked the beginning of a journey that would see the skies above Statesville, North Carolina, forever changed. With its grand opening, Statesville Regional Airport embarked on a mission to provide a haven for aircraft large and small, corporate and private. Now, for almost 81 years, it has stood as a testament to human innovation and a tribute to the enduring spirit of flight.

In February 1, 2019, a new chapter was written in the history of Statesville Regional Airport. The City of Statesville assumed control of the Fixed Base Operator (FBO) operations, ushering in a new era of service and dedication. This move not only ensured the airport's commitment to excellence but also strengthened its ties with the community it serves.

Statesville Regional Airport's strategic location, nestled alongside major interstates including I-40 and I-77, offers a unique advantage. It's a crossroads of convenience, affording easy access not only to I-85 but also to key thoroughfares like I-95, I-81, I-20, and I-26. This geographical boon has undoubtedly contributed to the airport's substantial economic impact.

Where Services Take Flight

Statesville Regional Airport is not just a runway and hangars; it's a comprehensive hub of services that cater to the diverse needs of aviation enthusiasts and professionals. Fuel and oil, rental cars, catering, and freight handling are just a few of the many services available on-site, enhancing the airport's role as a convenient and essential resource for the aviation community.

It's no surprise that the aviation elite find their way to Statesville Regional Airport. For Fortune 500 companies and renowned NASCAR teams, the airport offers top-notch corporate aviation facilities that meet their exacting standards. The presence of several NASCAR teams has turned the tarmac into a place where adrenaline and ambition converge.

Situated as a General Aviation (GA) airport owned by the City of Statesville, this aviation gem serves as a vital link for the residents of Iredell County and the surrounding region. The airport's impressive 7,003-foot runway and full parallel taxiway are more than just infrastructure – they're gateways to the skies, capable of accommodating corporate aircraft of any size.

Elevating the Community: By the Numbers

The figures speak volumes about Statesville Regional Airport's impact on the region:

• $8 Million in Tax Revenue
• $145 Million Economic Impact
• $45.4 Million in Personal Income
• 675 Jobs Supported
• 722,800 Population within 30 minutes of the Airport
• 100 Based Aircraft
• 41,200 Annual Operations

These numbers are not just statistics; they encapsulate the ripple effect of an airport that has transformed its surroundings, invigorating the local economy, and providing employment opportunities.

A Colorful Spectacle in the Skies

And as if its accomplishments weren't enough, Statesville Regional Airport is also home to the annual Carolina Balloonfest. Against the stunning backdrop of the airport's expanse, vibrant hot air balloons take flight, painting the skies with a kaleidoscope of colors. This captivating event not only showcases the beauty of flight but also serves as a testament to the airport's versatility as a venue for diverse community gatherings.

Learn more about Carolina Balloonfest here.

As we revel in the excitement of National Aviation Week, let us not forget the stories of innovation, dedication, and community that are etched into every inch of Statesville Regional Airport. From its humble beginnings in 1940 to its status as a thriving hub of aviation excellence today, KSVH is more than just an airport – it's a testament to the boundless human spirit and the power of dreams taking flight. Whether you're a passionate pilot, an aviation enthusiast, or simply someone captivated by the marvel of flight, Statesville Regional Airport invites you to join in celebrating National Aviation Week and the endless possibilities that await in the sky.