BY DONNA SWICEGOOD
Mayor Doug Hendrix called Thursday “a proud day for the City of Statesville.”
The reason for that pride, Hendrix said, was the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new terminal at the Statesville Regional Airport.
The terminal, he explained, is more than just a new building.
“It represents an investment in the future of our community. Our airport plays a critical role in supporting economic development, attracting new business and providing a central connectivity. It also serves as a vital regional resource for emergency services and public safety,” the mayor said, citing the role the airport played in ferrying relief to Western North Carolina in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene in 2024.
The airport is often the first impression visitors have of Statesville, and “this new terminal creates a welcoming, professional front door to our city,” Hendrix said.
Airport Manager John Ferguson said the terminal represents a major step forward for the airport. The modern, three-story facility is designed to better serve the needs of pilots, passengers and visitors.
The facility includes improved pilot amenities, an inviting board room, improved gathering spaces for passengers and room for future growth.
Ferguson said one of the exciting features is the third floor, which is designed for a future restaurant. “That is something we’re especially looking forward to as the airport continues to grow,” he said.
City Manager Ron Smith said projects like the terminal don’t happen without strong partnerships at the state and regional level.
Smith thanked Rep. Jeff McNeely and Sen. Vickie Sawyer for helping secure state funding over two cycles, which made the terminal a reality.
Smith said the funding for the project was a combination of NCDOT Aviation grants as well as city and Iredell County funds.
“It is a true economic development tool for Statesville, Iredell County, Mooresville — this whole region really,” he said.
N.C. Department of Transportation representative Raj Kondapalli said the airport is very important to the state.
Mayor Hendrix thanked past city council members and former Mayor Costi Kutteh for their hard work in making the new terminal a reality. He also expressed appreciation to city staff, the Airport Commission, Parrish and Partners, Samet Corporation, Lindsey Architects and NCDOT Aviation.
“We are grateful for the teamwork and shared vision that made this possible,” he said.
The official ribbon cutting was preceded by a moment of silence to remember the seven people who were killed in a crash at the airport in December. Retired NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, his daughter, Emma, 14, and son, Ryder, 5, along with pilots Dennis Dutton and son Jack Dutton, and Craig Wadsworth died in the December 18, 2025 crash.