In this episode of Develop This!, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Ron Kresha, Chief Financial Officer and founding member of Golden Shovel Agency, to explore the powerful — and often overlooked — role of community airports in economic development.

Drawing from his professional expertise and personal passion for aviation, Ron makes a compelling case for why community airports must be viewed not as line-item expenses, but as anchor institutions that drive investment, healthcare access, business recruitment, and long-term growth.

From general aviation to essential air service, airport marketing to emerging aviation technology, this episode delivers actionable insights for community and economic development leaders ready to elevate their local airport strategy.

1. Community Airports: Expense or Economic Engine?

Ron challenges the common misconception that airports are financial drains. Instead, he reframes them as infrastructure investments that produce measurable ROI through:

Business attraction and retention
Corporate aviation access
Site selection competitiveness
Tourism and regional connectivity

2. The Critical Role of General Aviation

While commercial flights often dominate the conversation, general aviation is a major contributor to local economies. Corporate aircraft, medical flights, flight training, agricultural aviation, and logistics operations all rely on well-maintained community airports.

For many communities, general aviation is the real driver of economic activity.

3. Essential Air Service & Small Community Survival

Ron highlights the importance of Essential Air Service (EAS) for rural and smaller communities. Reliable air connectivity supports:

Healthcare access
Executive travel
Talent recruitment
Emergency response

4. Airport Marketing & Community Engagement

One of the strongest themes of the episode is airport awareness. Many residents — and even local leaders — don't fully understand what their airport contributes.

Ron emphasizes proactive airport marketing, storytelling, and community engagement to bridge the knowledge gap. Airports must:

Share economic impact data
Highlight business users
Showcase medical and emergency benefits
Build pride and awareness locally

5. Avoiding the Vicious Cycle of Decline

Underinvestment leads to reduced usage. Reduced usage leads to funding challenges. Funding challenges lead to further decline.

Ron urges communities to:

Maintain and modernize infrastructure
Pursue airport funding opportunities
Treat airports as strategic assets
Align airport strategy with broader economic development plans

6. The Future of Aviation Technology

Looking ahead, the conversation explores:

Autonomous aircraft
Advanced air mobility
Emerging aviation technologies
Increased efficiency in general aviation

Communities that prepare now will be positioned to capitalize on the next evolution of aviation.

Takeaways for Economic Development Professionals

Community airports are anchor institutions — not optional amenities.
Investment in airport infrastructure generates long-term economic returns.
General aviation plays a larger role in local economies than many realize.
Essential air service can determine whether small communities thrive or struggle.
Airport engagement and marketing are essential to sustaining funding and support.
Education and awareness campaigns can transform public perception.
The future of aviation presents new opportunities for proactive communities.

DT #624 Beyond the Terminal: Reframing Community Airports as Economic Engines