The Bradford Regional Airport Authority, at its monthly board meeting July 9, saw members discuss opportunities for sustainable energy, welcome new airline leadership, and review continued progress on airport operations and projects.

A presentation from Veregy Energy sparked discussions around a proposed solar energy installation at the airport. The project could generate significant lease revenue per 20-acre site, with added benefits such as potential cost savings for the airport and alignment with FAA priorities. While the board has additional questions and needs more time to research, members did express interest in exploring the proposal further and will consider a Memorandum of Understanding to move the concept forward. No board action was taken on this matter.

Also at the meeting, the board received a favorable mid-year financial report from treasurer Dave Ferguson and Airport Director Alicia Dankesreiter. Revenues and expenses are tracking well, with a healthy budget outlook for the second half of the year. New financial reporting formats are in development to better serve board decision-making.

Consulting engineer Nick Barber of McFarland Johnson shared updates on several active improvement projects, including progress on the runway signage and lighting initiative. The team is also working closely with the FAA to secure funding for upcoming infrastructure upgrades, including a much-needed roof replacement. This project will move forward once the $100,000 local share funds are available.

Dankesreiter reported that “airline reliability is soaring this summer with almost 96% completion of scheduled flights. This is well above average.”

While June enplanement numbers were lower than in recent years, the airport and airline have plans to introduce new marketing efforts that they anticipate will drive ridership.

The authority welcomed Austin Mayer, the new representative from Southern Airways. Mayer will serve as the primary point of contact for the airline and is already engaging with the community. He announced the return of the popular $39 flat fare for University of Pittsburgh at Bradford students — a great value for student travelers.

“Austin is eager to get out into the community and make connections. If your civic or volunteer organization is looking for speakers or promotional material, please reach out.”

The authority board reviewed a proposed federal bill that would strengthen consumer protections for EAS (Essential Air Service) passengers, reflecting national efforts to ensure reliability in rural air service. Meanwhile, the airport’s employee retirement plan remains in excellent shape, currently funded at 104%.

The meeting concluded with no public comments. The next Bradford Regional Airport Authority meeting is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. Aug. 13.