DAVIDSON COUNTY, N.C. -- Regional airports around the state rely on state and federal funds to cover costs of major projects.

  • The Davidson County Airport recently was approved for nearly $600,000 for a new safety system
  • Having top of the line systems and equipment allows the airports to compete with the larger airports for business
  • Now that the funding was approved, the airport leadership will work on contracting so they can begin construction

The Davidson County Airport recently was approved for nearly $600,000 for a new safety system.

"It's a glideslope system, and it's a safety navigational aid. It's designed to get pilots in when weather conditions are poor," Airport Authority Chairman John Gray said.

Having top of the line systems and equipment allows the airports to compete with the larger airports for business. Airports are the first thing many visitors see of an area.

"For us it's very important to give the service, and also they see the facility," Airport Director Karel Van Der Linden says. "They ask everything. They want to rent a car. They want direction. They want to know about the barbecue."

Now that the funding was approved, the airport leadership will work on contracting the work so they can begin construction.