New 14,000-square-foot facility will modernize airport operations and support continued economic growth in north-central Oklahoma.
PONCA CITY, Okla. — State and local leaders joined the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and the City of Ponca City today to break ground on a new $14.3 million terminal at Ponca City Regional Airport, marking a significant investment in aviation infrastructure and economic development in north-central Oklahoma.
The new 14,000-square-foot terminal will provide modern accommodations for pilots, passengers, and airport visitors while enhancing the airport's ability to serve business and general aviation. Located west of the existing facility, the new terminal will also create space for a new aircraft apron, improving aircraft accessibility and positioning the airport for future growth. Additionally, the beloved Enrique's Mexican Restaurant will relocate to the new terminal.
The $14.3 million project is funded through a partnership that includes $9.4 million from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), $1 million from ODAA, and $3.9 million from the City of Ponca City. The federal investment was made possible through the congressional Community Project Funding (CPF) process, with former U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin playing a key role in securing funding for the airport's infrastructure improvements.
"An airport is often a community's front door, creating the first impression for businesses, investors, and visitors considering opportunities in the region," said Grayson Ardies, executive director of the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics. "This investment is about more than constructing a new terminal. It's about ensuring Ponca City has the infrastructure to compete for new business, support its aviation community, and create opportunities for future generations. We're proud to partner with the city and the FAA to bring this project to life."
According to Oklahoma's 2026 Aerospace and Defense Economic Impact Study, Ponca City Regional Airport supports approximately 237 jobs, generates $10.9 million in annual payroll and $16.4 million in spending, and contributes $27.4 million in total annual economic activity. That represents an increase of more than $17 million in economic impact since 2017, underscoring the airport's growing importance to the regional economy.
"Regional airports are critical economic engines for communities across Oklahoma, and Ponca City is a perfect example," said Sen. Bill Coleman, R-Ponca City. "With the airport's economic impact nearly tripling since 2017, this investment comes at an important time. By strengthening our aviation infrastructure today, we're creating opportunities to attract new businesses, support existing industries, and keep north-central Oklahoma competitive for generations to come."
The city-owned airport features a 7,200-foot runway, is home to 53 based aircraft, and averages approximately 140 aircraft operations daily. Its aviation capabilities support local businesses, general aviation, and connectivity to destinations across Oklahoma and beyond.
"Ponca City's airport is an important asset for the businesses and families who call this region home," said Rep. Ken Luttrell, R-Ponca City. "A modern terminal and improved aircraft facilities will help us better serve existing aviation activity while opening the door to new opportunities. Investments like this strengthen our local economy and demonstrate that communities across Oklahoma deserve the infrastructure needed to thrive."
For the City of Ponca City, the groundbreaking represents an important milestone in its long-term vision for improving airport facilities and supporting the community's economic future.
"This is an exciting day for Ponca City and a testament to the partnerships that continue to move our community forward," said Ponca City Mayor Kelsey Wagner. "Our airport is a gateway to our city, and this new terminal will provide a welcoming, modern facility that reflects the pride we have in Ponca City. With the support of our federal and state partners, we're making an investment that will benefit our residents, businesses, and aviation community for decades to come."
Friday's ceremony brought together elected officials, aviation stakeholders, and community leaders to celebrate the project. Following remarks from Ponca City Manager Craig Stephenson, Ardies, Coleman, Luttrell, and Wagner, attendees participated in a ceremonial groundbreaking at the future terminal site.
The new terminal and associated apron improvements represent another step in Oklahoma's ongoing efforts to modernize its public-use airports, strengthen regional connectivity, and ensure communities across the state have the infrastructure necessary to support future economic opportunities.
