Hardeman County Airport Adding Income through Pilot Training
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Hardeman County officials said the answer to some of their budget woes may be in an their county’s airport. Officials said for years, the William Whitehurst Airport was home to many aviation students. The county owns an apartment complex near the airport which houses more than 100 students. County officials hope to revitalize the program. “This is about revenue building,” said Hardeman County Mayor Willie Spencer. Spencer said the county spent more than $3 million to extend the airport’s runway to more than 5,000 feet. Aviation Instructor Richie Lipford said the Hardeman County airspace is perfect because it is uncongested. Airport Chairman Jerry Haser said they expect 20 additional students in the upcoming weeks. Mayor Spencer said the county does not receive any profit from the estimated $50,000 tuition generated from the nine month program, but generates income from rentals, jet fuel and money spent by the students in the area. Haser said he estimates the 20 students will generate more than $130,000 in revenue for the county.
