Wichita airports report revenue growth, capital spending and tech upgrades

An airport representative presented an annual report to the Wichita City Council, saying operating revenues were up about 6% over 2024 while expenses ran roughly 4% below budget and the airport operates as an enterprise fund without drawing on the city general fund.

"We make more money than we spend," the presenter said, adding, "We do not accept funding from the city. We don't take taxes and general fund monies." The presenter said the airport had roughly $70 million in capital spending over the past five years and described multiple ongoing projects and tenant-driven investments.

Key figures and projects: The presenter cited recent tenant investments, noting about $1.2 million in investments at Eisenhower and approximately $34 million at Jabara (figures shown in the slides), and said negotiated agreements are expected to generate incremental revenue (a first-year revenue increase estimate of $671,000 and a longer-term value figure shown in staff materials). The airport will complete a master plan later this year and is planning pavement, apron and taxiway projects with capital totals discussed in the presentation.

Operations and customer experience: The airport discussed hiring and succession planning following retirements, technology upgrades to flight-information infrastructure, installation of video walls behind ticket counters, and adoption of common-use equipment to increase flexibility for airlines. Concession revenues and parking were also reported to be up year over year.

Market context and goals: The presenter described market competition with nearby airports (Kansas City and Tulsa) and said air-service and workforce development remain priorities, with staff pursuing additional routes to larger markets.

What’s next: Staff said they will continue to pursue grants and contracts to support terminal modifications, parking and roadway repairs, and other capital projects.