DECATUR, Ala. — The Pryor Field Airport Authority has approved the acquisition of a privately owned 12,000-square-foot hangar at Pryor Field Regional Airport that is currently on a long-term ground lease with the Authority.
The acquisition ensures the hangar remains an active aviation asset and positions the airport for continued expansion in aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. Airport leadership identified the opportunity as a strategic investment to create jobs, retain existing tenants, and grow operations at the airport.
“This was a strategic move for the Authority that helped position the airport for the future,” said Adam Fox, CEO of the Pryor Field Airport Authority. “By acquiring this hangar, we are creating new opportunities for growth, job creation, and expanded aviation services at Pryor Field.”
The Authority intends to lease the facility to FTair, LLC. to support expanded maintenance operations for larger aircraft, including regional jets such as the Embraer ERJ 145 and the Bombardier CRJ 200. The hangar’s proximity to the airport’s fixed-base operator (FBO) and airfield infrastructure makes it uniquely suited for advanced maintenance operations.
FTair is an FAA-certified Part 145 Repair Station with corporate offices in Memphis, Tennessee. Operating as Total Air Group until 2020, the company was purchased by the Flight Test Aerospace (FTA) family and fully integrated with FTair in 2022.
This strategic acquisition strengthens Pryor Field’s ability to serve both general aviation and commercial aviation sectors while increasing aircraft traffic and fuel flow. Airport officials anticipate the project will support approximately 20-25 high-skilled aviation jobs, with an average annual salary of approximately $65,000, contributing significant economic impact to Limestone County and the surrounding North Alabama region.
“This expansion represents more than just additional hangar space—it reflects a long-term investment in the future of Pryor Field and the North Alabama aviation ecosystem,” said Joe Mateo, Chief Operating Officer of FTA. “By expanding our operational footprint, we are increasing our ability to serve larger and more complex aircraft, creating high-quality technical jobs, and driving sustainable economic growth for Limestone County. Pryor Field is uniquely positioned to become a regional aviation hub, and we are proud to partner in building that future while continuing to deliver best-in-class service to the aviation community.”
“FTair is excited about the opportunity to expand operations at Pryor Field,” said Neal Ropp, General Manager of FTair. “As a premier maintenance provider for both based and transient aircraft, the new 12,000-square-foot hangar creates opportunities to support business and regional jet aircraft. We will continue to offer best-in-class maintenance services with no interruption to our current aircraft customers.”
The facility will complement existing hangar operations and further position Pryor Field as a regional hub for maintenance services within the Tennessee Valley. By keeping the hangar operational and at max capacity, the airport ensures flexibility for future aviation development while safeguarding critical airside assets.
The acquisition aligns with the Authority’s broader strategic plan to preserve aviation capacity, expand service offerings, and strengthen partnerships that support economic development across North Alabama.
About Pryor Field Regional Airport (DCU)
Located in Limestone County, Alabama, Pryor Field Regional Airport (DCU) is one of the busiest general aviation airports in Alabama. It serves the needs of business and general aviation operations, military, and cargo operations on a national scale. DCU is the gateway to North Alabama and the Tennessee Valley.
