SWAN LAKE — Approved for landing by Governor Kathy Hochul this past week was the $18.5 million enhancement project for the 55-year old Sullivan County International Airport (SCIA). 

The funds were awarded through the $230 million Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition, which is administered by the New York State Department of Transportation (DOT).

Included in the announced update is a new 15,000 square foot, energy efficient building that will feature natural lighting, all electric HVAC system and an enlarged restaurant and bar area. Additionally, it will showcase a pilot’s lounge  and other amenities aimed at cultivating a modern travel center.

“The new terminal has been designed to draw in aviation-oriented businesses to rent office space; to promote our revenue generators, like fuel purchases and hangar rentals; and to attract pilots, their passengers and the local public to a second-floor restaurant with incredible views of the runway and scenery,” said Public Works Commissioner Edward McAndrew. “While we won’t be offering scheduled passenger service, there will be opportunities for charter airlines to provide intercity flights, and flight instruction will continue at the Airport.”

The Governor agreed in her statement, noting the creation of a state-of-the-art gateway will “fuel economic growth and foster increased tourism for the entire Catskill Region.”

“Airports are the front doors to our Upstate communities and vital economic engines for the region,” Governor Hochul said. “This project will provide the Catskills with the state-of-the-art airport it deserves and greet thousands of visitors per year as they explore the region.”

According to Governor Hochul, the project has a total estimated cost of $23 million and is expected to create approximately 260 jobs. Work on the airport is expected to be completed by the spring of 2025. 

Additional improvements include:

Relocation of interior spaces including rental car check-in.

Creation of pilot lounge, conference office areas and pilot planning areas.

New and improved restrooms.

Upgraded heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.

Geothermal wells to provide heating/cooling systems for terminal building.

Upgraded terminal insulation, including windows and doors, to improve energy efficiency.

Solar panels to supplement power to terminal building.

New furniture, fixtures and equipment.

Replacement/upsizing of the existing septic system.

Upgraded fire suppression water tank and pump distribution system.

New electrical vehicle charging stations.

Repaved and striped main parking lot.

“This project will be a giant step forward in our effort to make the Airport a competitive, modern business jetport,” said McAndrew.

Oberacker, Gunther applaud the project

Sullivan County’s State representatives showed excitement for the project’s announcement.

“The Sullivan County International Airport is a key part of our local economy, and these upgrades will further heighten the facility’s value to the Catskills,” State Senator Peter Oberacker said. “With world-class tourist attractions and businesses all within the airport’s shadow, it is vital that we invest in this vital infrastructure component. When travelers touch down at SCIA they should know they have arrived somewhere important. This transformative project will help convey that impression.”

Assemblymember Aileen Gunther said, “Investments like this are game changers for my district. This project will invigorate our economy, drive tourism, and highlight the natural beauty of Sullivan County. I extend my sincere thanks to Governor Hochul for recognizing that Sullivan County is not just a pit stop, but rather a destination for travel in New York State.”