Key Takeaways
• Mohave County Airport Authority plans a major terminal expansion at Laughlin-Bullhead City Airport in 2025.
• An $850,000 SCASDP grant application was submitted on July 25, 2024, with over 19 local endorsements.
• Environmental and engineering phase costing $2.2 million must finish by May 2025 to secure federal funding.
The Mohave County Airport Authority board is pushing forward with a major terminal expansion at Laughlin-Bullhead City International Airport, aiming to boost travel options and economic growth for the region. With millions already invested and federal grant applications underway, the board’s actions in 2025 could reshape air travel and business opportunities for local residents, companies, and government partners.
Major Terminal Expansion and Funding Efforts
The Mohave County Airport Authority (MCAA) has made the terminal expansion at Laughlin-Bullhead City International Airport its top priority for 2025. The board’s vision is to transform the airport from a small regional hub into a medium-sized airport that can handle more flights, bigger planes, and more passengers. This move is expected to bring new airlines, more jobs, and greater convenience for people living in the area.
To kickstart this plan, the MCAA has already spent $1.4 million on project planning and buying the fixed-base operation, which is a key part of airport services. This purchase from a private company gives the airport more control over its operations and future growth.
A big part of the funding strategy is the application for an $850,000 grant from the Small Community Air Service Development Program (SCASDP). The MCAA submitted this application on July 25, 2024. If approved, the grant will serve as a “minimum revenue guarantee” to help attract scheduled passenger airlines. This means the airport can promise airlines a certain amount of money, reducing the risk for companies that might be unsure about starting new flights in the area.
The grant application has strong support, with over 19 letters of endorsement from local leaders, including both Arizona Senators. This shows how important the project is for the region’s economy and transportation needs.
Project Timelines and Federal Coordination
Timing is critical for the terminal expansion. The environmental and engineering phase—which costs $2.2 million—is set to finish by May 2025. This phase includes studies and plans needed before construction can begin. It’s important to finish this work quickly because the FAA’s Airport Terminal Project Program ends after 2025. If the airport misses this deadline, it could lose out on federal funding that is essential for the expansion.
Right now, only the walkway project—a smaller construction effort that connects airport buildings—qualifies for federal grant money. This is because it’s “shovel-ready,” meaning it can start right away. The larger terminal expansion still needs to complete its planning and environmental steps before it can get similar support.
Infrastructure and Service Upgrades
The planned terminal expansion will bring several improvements to Laughlin-Bullhead City International Airport:
- A new second floor with jetway connections, allowing passengers to board planes directly from the terminal
- Better security systems to keep travelers safe and meet federal standards
- Modern facilities that can handle larger aircraft and more passengers
- Improved amenities for both business and leisure travelers, such as comfortable waiting areas, more shops, and better food options
In addition to these upgrades, the airport is looking for private investment to build large corporate hangars. These hangars would attract business jets and other private aircraft, bringing in more revenue and supporting local companies.
Economic Impact for the Region
The airport already has a big effect on the local economy, with an estimated annual economic impact of $150 million. This money comes from tourism, business travel, and the many services that support airport operations. The terminal expansion is expected to increase this impact by making it easier for people to fly in and out of the area, reducing the need for residents to drive to Las Vegas or Phoenix for flights.
By keeping more travel local, the airport can help nearby hotels, restaurants, and shops grow. It also makes the area more attractive for new businesses that want easy access to air travel.
Board Governance and Membership Updates
The Mohave County Airport Authority board is made up of nine directors and a group of general members. At the most recent annual meeting, Arden Lauxman and Troy Teske were both re-elected for another three-year term. This shows stability and ongoing commitment to the airport’s long-term plans.
The board is responsible for setting policies and overseeing the airport’s management. Their decisions affect everything from daily operations to major construction projects like the terminal expansion.
County Representation and Stakeholder Engagement
On April 13, 2025, the Mohave County Board of Supervisors voted to ask for a voting seat on the MCAA board. This move is important because it gives the county a direct say in how the airport is run. County leaders believe that having a vote will help make sure the airport’s growth matches the needs of the whole region, not just the city where it’s located.
This push for more representation reflects the airport’s growing importance for economic development and transportation planning across Mohave County.
Leadership and Management
James Scheller, C.M., continues to serve as Airport Director. He is responsible for all administrative, operational, and maintenance tasks at the airport. Since taking the job in May 2023, Scheller has focused on working closely with the community and other partners to support the airport’s growth.
Scheller’s leadership is seen as a key factor in the airport’s recent progress. He brings years of experience in aviation management and has built strong relationships with local businesses, government officials, and federal agencies.
Recent Meetings and Official Records
The most recent MCAA board meeting took place on June 25, 2025. These meetings are open to the public, and the official minutes and agendas are posted on the airport’s website. This transparency helps keep the community informed about project updates, financial decisions, and opportunities for public input.
For those interested in following the airport’s progress, the official MCAA website is the best place to find the latest information, including meeting schedules and project updates.
Policy Implications and Practical Effects
The terminal expansion and efforts to bring in scheduled passenger service will have several practical effects:
- For local residents and businesses: More flight options mean less time spent driving to distant airports. This convenience can save money and make travel easier for families and companies.
- For investors and aviation stakeholders: The airport is actively seeking private partners to help build new hangars and other facilities. This creates opportunities for companies looking to invest in aviation infrastructure.
- For government and regional planners: The push for a county voting seat on the board shows a desire for more public oversight and better coordination with other transportation projects.
Future Outlook and Pending Developments
The next big milestone is the decision on the SCASDP grant application. If the airport receives the $850,000 grant, it will have a much better chance of attracting new airlines and expanding its terminal. This decision is expected later in 2025.
At the same time, the airport must finish its environmental and engineering work by May 2025 to qualify for federal funding from the FAA’s program. Missing this deadline could slow down the entire project.
There are also ongoing talks between the MCAA, Clark County Airport Authority, and other regional partners. These discussions could lead to new partnerships and even more investment in the airport’s future.
Multiple Perspectives and Expert Analysis
- Airport Authority Leadership: Leaders at the Mohave County Airport Authority believe that scheduled passenger service and terminal upgrades will transform the tri-state region’s economy. They point to the strong support from local and state officials as proof that the project is a top priority.
- County Officials: County leaders want a bigger role in airport decisions. They argue that the airport’s growth affects everyone in Mohave County, not just those living near the airport.
- Aviation Consultants: Experts say that getting federal grants is very competitive. They recommend a step-by-step approach, starting with smaller, shovel-ready projects like the walkway, to build momentum and show progress.
Background and Historical Context
The Mohave County Airport Authority is a non-profit group that manages the Laughlin-Bullhead City International Airport. Unlike many airports, it does not rely on local tax money. Instead, it operates as a self-supporting business, using revenue from airport operations and outside funding.
The airport serves the tri-state area, including parts of Arizona 🇺🇸, Nevada 🇺🇸, and California 🇺🇸. Over the years, it has become a key part of the region’s transportation network, supporting tourism, business, and local jobs.
Solution-Oriented Elements and Next Steps
To keep the terminal expansion on track, the MCAA is focusing on several key actions:
- Finishing environmental and engineering work by May 2025 to qualify for federal funds
- Continuing to seek private investment for hangar development and other projects
- Working with local, state, and federal partners to secure grants and support
- Keeping the public informed through regular board meetings and updates on the airport website
Residents, business owners, and investors who want to get involved or stay updated should visit the official MCAA website for meeting schedules, project news, and contact information.
Official Government Resources
For more information about federal airport grants and programs, readers can visit the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airports page, which provides details on funding opportunities, program deadlines, and eligibility requirements.
Conclusion and Practical Guidance
The Mohave County Airport Authority’s push to expand the Laughlin-Bullhead City International Airport comes at a critical time for the region. With strong leadership, community support, and a clear plan for funding and construction, the airport is well-positioned to become a major hub for travel and business.
Local residents can look forward to more convenient flights and new economic opportunities. Businesses and investors have a chance to partner with the airport on new projects. Government officials are working to ensure that the airport’s growth matches the needs of the entire county.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the success of the terminal expansion will depend on timely action, strong partnerships, and continued public engagement. By staying informed and involved, all stakeholders can help shape the future of air travel in Mohave County and beyond.
For the latest updates, meeting details, and ways to participate, visit the Mohave County Airport Authority’s official website or attend upcoming board meetings. The future of the Laughlin-Bullhead City International Airport is taking off, and the entire community stands to benefit from its growth.
Learn Today
Mohave County Airport Authority → A non-profit organization managing Laughlin-Bullhead City International Airport without relying on local taxes.
Terminal Expansion → A project to enlarge airport facilities, increasing capacity for passengers, aircraft, and services.
Small Community Air Service Development Program → A federal grant program supporting small airports to attract scheduled passenger airlines.
Fixed-Base Operation → A business providing essential airport services like fueling and maintenance to support aircraft.
FAA Airport Terminal Project Program → A Federal Aviation Administration program funding terminal development projects for eligible airports.
This Article in a Nutshell
Mohave County Airport Authority plans a major expansion of Laughlin-Bullhead City Airport to increase flights, attract airlines, and boost the regional economy. They seek federal grants and private investment, aiming to finish key phases by May 2025. This project promises new jobs, better travel, and stronger local business growth.
— By VisaVerge.com
