The Inverness Airport is planning for significant growth over the next 20 years, with a draft master plan that includes dozens of additional aircraft hangars, upgraded infrastructure, and space for emerging aviation technology. The plan was unveiled during a public open house on Monday, July 7, 2026, at the Lakes Region Library.
The master plan, prepared by Infrastructure Consulting & Engineering, aims to ensure the county-owned airport can safely accommodate increasing aviation demand while preserving room for future economic development. According to a 2022 economic impact study, the airport generates nearly $68.8 million annually in economic output, making it one of Citrus County’s significant transportation and business assets. Alex Vacha, senior aviation planner with Infrastructure Consulting & Engineering, said, “We’re trying to give the airport options. When a developer shows up, we want the county to have a landscape in front of them that they can point to and say, ‘We’ve designated a spot for you. We think you’d be best right here.'” The plan projects steady growth through 2045, fueled in part by continued population increases across Citrus County and the region. Consultants estimate annual aircraft operations will exceed 33,000 by the end of the planning period, while the airport’s local footprint grows to about 44 based aircraft.
The airport’s growth is expected to be driven by increasing demand for aviation services, with several dozen residents, aviation enthusiasts, and nearby property owners attending the public open house to review proposed improvements and speak with consultants. The master plan is intended to ensure the airport can accommodate this growth while preserving room for future economic development.
Some of the key features of the master plan include the addition of dozens of aircraft hangars, upgraded infrastructure, and space for emerging aviation technology. The plan is expected to be submitted to the Federal Aviation Administration for review.
Originally reported by Citrus County Chronicle – Inverness
Sources: Citrus County Chronicle – Inverness
