Batesville leaders are pleased to announce that the Batesville Airport and Batesville Aviation Services have transitioned from a private use to public use airport.
Officials at Batesville Aviation Services, owned by Shorty Whittington, Grammer, Indiana, and son John, have spent the past four years working with the Federal Aviation Administration and the state of Indiana to obtain its public status certification.
“This has been our vision for the airport since purchasing the facility in 2012,” says Whittington. “We look forward to expanding the use of our facility to assist area companies and community members by addressing their business and travel needs.”
Mayor Mike Bettice reports, “Batesville Aviation has made an investment in our future and for that we thank you. On behalf of the city of Batesville, I would like to share my gratitude and appreciation to Shorty and John Whittington for their commitment and investment in making Batesville the best place to live, work and raise a family.”
The airport provides a variety of aircraft, pilot and traveler services, according to a news release. Aircraft services include heated hangars, 24-hour emergency service and a valet fueling station providing Shell Aviation branded fuels.
In addition, the facility, located at 25222 Enochsburg Road northwest of downtown Batesville, will serve as a location to transfer patients with complex health issues via medical emergency aircraft. Pilots and travelers will have access to Fixed-Base Operation (FBO) amenities, a weather briefing room, pilot and passenger lounges, local catering for in-flight needs, ground transportation, Enterprise car rental and assistance with local overnight accommodations.
Fixed-Base Operation manager Jana Selke notes, “This is a very exciting day for the community and surrounding counties. We could not have received this status without the support of the city of Batesville. This truly was a team effort.”
Bill Schirmer, Franklin County Economic Development Commission president, says, “The economic impact this can have on the Franklin County and Batesville community is endless. Hats off to Shorty and the team at Batesville Aviation for your perseverance and commitment.”