Scott Cutshall, president, strategy & sustainability at Clay Lacy discusses the company’s latest developments at Freidman Memorial Airport and John Wayne Airport.
Can you explain how nature will influence the design of the FBO at Friedman Memorial Airport?
The Freidman Memorial Airport resides is a beautiful part of the US where people enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities. It also is within the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve. The facility was designed and laid out with these core natural elements in mind. Beginning with the materials used for construction that include natural woods and stones, the physical orientation of the buildings to make the most use of the Southern exposure to keep the building warm in winter, while also protecting it from the prevailing Southernly winds, to large overhangs to reduce excess light from being reflected upward.
What specific sustainable design features will be incorporated into the new FBO at Friedman Memorial Airport?
The building will be designed and constructed with the latest in LEED buildings standards. Specific elements have not been finalized but will likely include low-flow water fixtures, use of radiant heating, LED lighting, recycling and composting of waste, use of natural ventilation, and low carbon building materials.
How will this new facility enhance general aviation access in the Sun Valley region?
This FBO will provide general aviation users of the airport with a competitive marketplace by introducing a second FBO at the airport. It will also provide additional hangar capacity that was lost during the relocation of taxi Bravo a few years ago.
Can you elaborate on the expected timeline for construction and when the FBO will become operational?
Groundbreaking is anticipated to begin in 2026 with completion toward the end of 2028.
What types of aircraft services and ground support will be available at the new facility at Friedman Memorial Airport?
Clay Lacy will provide full-service ground handling, fuelling, marshalling, parking, towing, lav and water service, aircraft maintenance support, pilot planning and snooze rooms, and a host of other services valued by General Aviation users.
How does this new location align with Clay Lacy Aviation’s broader strategic expansion plans?
Clay Lacy Aviation provides a host of general aviation services from aircraft management, charter, maintenance, avionics, aircraft detailing, and FBO services. Many of our existing clients frequent Sun Valley, so the establishment of an full-service FBO to serve their needs and expand the service and facility options currently available at the airport was a natural extension to our business plans.
Are you expecting any challenging aspects to your project at John Wayne Airport?
The biggest challenge to this project is the redevelopment of the 14-acres while also continuing to provide the high level of FBO services out of our temporary facilities.
Do you have an opening date?
We anticipate the first phase of development to open in 2026.
Can you talk me through the John Wayne Airport FBO project?
Construction began in November of 2024 with the completion of phase 1 to be complete in 2026. The first phase includes two community hangars, the adjacent offices, parking, and ramp redevelopment. Phase two will include additional community hangars, the main FBO passenger lobby, offices, and the Orange County Sherriff’s Department Air Support Facility.
Does the facility have any unique aspects?
The development will be the first FBO in the world built in accordance with the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure Envision Gold standard for sustainability in both the construction, and operation of the facility. The project will also feature an outdoor patio with airport viewing deck, and electric charging capabilities for soon to be certified all-electric aircraft.
Can you talk about the planned interior of the new facility? Does it reflect the surrounding area?
The interior will feature photos and artwork reflective of Orange County and its history and the main entrance will feature a small grove of Orange trees.
Why have you decided to open a new facility at John Wayne Airport and why now?
The John Wayne Orange County Airport announced a General Aviation Improvement Program (GAIP) in 2018 where the facilities in the general aviation portion of the airport would receive significant redevelopment to accommodate today’s modern aircraft while supporting safe and efficient operations for all general aviation users. Clay Lacy Aviation was awarded a 14-acre parcel of land to redevelop and operate a full service FBO in accordance with the GAIP.
How does this project align with Clay Lacy’s long-term sustainability and innovation goals?
Clay Lacy Aviation’s long term sustainability goals encompass reducing the environmental impacts of our operations, providing sustainable solutions for our customers, and preparing for future regulations. Our approach to the design, construction, and ongoing operations of this facility support these three goals.
