AOPA Enters Fray Over Plans to Close a Connecticut Airport

Aviation advocacy group urges members to contact local politicians.

Jonathan Welsh

Wednesday, April 20, 2022 at 05:28 PM ET

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Hartford-Brainard Airport opened in 1921. [Photo: Al Braden]

Key Takeaways:

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) is opposing efforts by Connecticut officials to close and redevelop Hartford-Brainard Airport (KHFD).
AOPA argues that a proposed state bill (SB 463) would violate federal grant obligations, prevent safety and infrastructure investments, and jeopardize the airport's estimated $59 million annual economic impact.
The organization is mobilizing its local members to contact state lawmakers to amend Senate Bill 463 and preserve the airport, which a 2016 study deemed the best use of the property.

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The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) has joined the effort to keep a Connecticut airport open as local officials consider targeting it for closure and redevelopment.

Earlier this year, a proposal to close Hartford-Brainard Airport (KHFD), which is located on the Connecticut River in the state’s capital, led to the mobilization of pilots who use the airport and businesses that operate there.