Cleared for Takeoff
The Indianapolis Executive Airport is “taking off” with momentum and growth heading into 2026.
The Indianapolis Executive Airport is an intricate part of economic development in Boone and Hamilton counties and is overseen by the Hamilton County Airport Authority. The airport is utilized by general aviation, business and charter flights. It is recognized as a leader in aviation innovation in central Indiana and is one of the busiest non-towered general aviation airports in the U.S. It is also the second-busiest airport in the state in terms of business aircraft aviation.
The Indianapolis Executive Airport has a busy year of growth and development ahead, especially with the ongoing process of bringing a U.S. Customs office to the airport.
After seeing an increase in international flights, the airport began looking at ways to better accommodate this growth, which initially facilitated the idea of potentially having a customs facility on-site. This would streamline international operations by bypassing the need to route flights through Indianapolis International Airport. The potential addition of a customs office not only creates the opportunity to service more international flights, but also opens the door for significant economic growth from national and international companies, as well as travelers coming to Boone and Hamilton counties.
“The process to create a customs facility started a couple of years ago, beginning in 2023. It is a lengthy process, and we had the support of senators and lobbyists who went to D.C. to advocate for us,” says Airport Director Sam Sachs.
The foundation for the anticipated customs building was poured in October when construction began on a new Beck’s hangar.
Beck’s already has a prominent footprint at the airport, including a large, designated hangar on-site. The major seed innovator utilizes the airport for business and international flights and currently has another large hangar under construction.
Even though the groundwork has been poured, negotiations and preparations regarding the customs building are still underway. Regulatory approvals, funding and logistical details, including facility design, staffing and security, remain in progress.
Jet Access is also a key component of the airport’s success. Operating as the full-service fixed-base operator, Jet Access plays a major role in daily operations. Services include ramp support with aircraft taxiing assistance, full-service fueling and ground support, aircraft management and charter services, maintenance and de-icing services, concierge support, private conference rooms and pilot amenities, including a private pilots room and access to courtesy cars.
Jet Access also operates the flight school located at the Indianapolis Executive Airport. The school offers private, instrument and commercial pilot courses and provides students with a flexible pay-as-you-go flight training program, allowing them to progress at their own pace while remaining mindful of costs.
The Indianapolis Executive Airport has undergone significant infrastructure upgrades to accommodate its growth, including a recent major runway extension. The runway now measures 7,001 feet in length, making it one of the largest general aviation runways in Indiana. As a result of the expansion, the airport can now accommodate larger charter and international flights. Additional improvements include ongoing hangar development and an LED lighting project designed to enhance operations during nighttime and adverse weather conditions.
The Indianapolis Executive Airport also boasts a unique feature as the Midwest’s first all-weather arrival and departure canopy on its ramp, helping mitigate the unpredictability of Indiana weather. The airport offers complimentary 45-minute youth tours, accommodating groups of approximately eight to 20 students. The recommended age for tours is 5 and older. Tours include a brief introduction to airport operations and aircraft housed in the hangars and are offered Monday through Friday from 9 to 11 a.m. and 2 to 4 p.m.
With ongoing developments including upgraded facilities, expanded services, new hangar construction and continued progress toward a U.S. Customs office, the Indianapolis Executive Airport and Jet Access are positioned to make 2026 a pivotal year.
To learn more about the Indianapolis Executive Airport, including free public tours, visit indyexec.com.
