Study: Salina Airport Complex Generates $1.6 Billion in Annual Economic Activity

The Salina Regional Airport and Airport Industrial Center generated $1.62 billion in economic activity and supported 12,376 jobs in 2024, according to a new economic impact study released by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University.

The study, commissioned by the Salina Airport Authority, examined the economic contributions of more than 100 businesses, public institutions, educational organizations, and military units located at the airport complex. The facilities account for 41.4% of Saline County's total economic output and 31.1% of local employment.

Economic activity at the airport complex increased 25% since the previous study in 2021, rising from $1.30 billion in 2020 to $1.62 billion in 2024. Employment grew 77% over the same period, from 7,005 jobs to 12,376 jobs.

Private sector businesses at the complex contributed $1.55 billion in output, representing 39.6% of all economic activity in Saline County, and employed 8,700 people. Private sector output increased by $450 million since 2020, while employment in that sector grew from 5,209 to 8,700 jobs.

Educational institutions on the airport grounds generated over $32 million in economic output and provided 530 jobs. Public institutions and other entities contributed nearly $38 million in economic impact and 205 jobs.

Military units, including the Kansas National Guard Training Center, added 41 civilian jobs to the local economy. The study noted that visiting military personnel contribute through training activities and overnight stays.

According to the research, 92% of airport complex employees live in Kansas, with many residing within Salina city limits.

A separate Chamber of Commerce survey found that commercial air service at the airport supports business travel and visitor spending, with inbound travelers generating an estimated $437,000 in direct spending.

Pieter Miller, executive director of the Salina Airport Authority, said the study demonstrates the airport's role as an economic driver for the region. The Salina Airport Authority operates the airport complex, which serves multiple aviation and industrial functions.

The Docking Institute of Public Affairs conducted the comprehensive economic analysis to measure the facility's impact on the local economy.