kunz consulting

June 2026

Aviation has been an active theme in my work the past few years, beginning with an analysis of the economic impacts of West Virginia’s aviation policies (2024), and followed by an exploration of innovative economic development opportunities and funding potentials (2025). The third report in the series will move the process forward by identifying the most feasible projects and ways to bring them to fruition. This combines immediate projects (i.e., hanger and fuel needs), with a focus on longer-view integration of AAM (advanced air mobility) services.

This second report identifies economic development projects with the potential to help airports meet their potential. Discussions include the obvious, such as hanger construction and fuel farm support, as well as more future-oriented opportunities, including drone and AAM technologies. In addition, it explores the myriad of financing options available beyond reliance on FAA support.

The first of the studies for the Multimodal Division of the West Virginia Department of Transportation, this research examines the commercial and general aviation airports in the state and the policies that support them. An analysis of opportunities and challenges and preliminary recommendations for ways to increase support conclude the report.