The Oklahoma City Airport Trust convened on May 29, 2025, to discuss the fiscal year 2026 budget and various capital projects. The meeting began with a presentation outlining the budgetary changes and anticipated revenue adjustments for the upcoming fiscal year.
The proposed budget for fiscal year 2026 is set at $208 million, a decrease from the previous year's budget of $211 million. This reduction is primarily attributed to an expected revenue decline of approximately $8 million, largely due to forecasts from airlines. Despite this decrease, the operating budget is projected to increase slightly, reflecting ongoing operational needs.
Key highlights from the budget presentation included a focus on capital projects, with a significant emphasis on maintaining a healthy cash balance to fund future initiatives. The reserve funds are expected to rise by about $6 million, which will be allocated towards upcoming capital projects, including a new parking garage.
The presentation also detailed various revenue streams, indicating that building rents and landing fees are projected to decline due to reduced airline activity. However, other revenue sources are expected to remain stable. The trust plans to utilize carryover funds from the current fiscal year to support ongoing projects.
Among the notable capital projects discussed were the replacement of boarding bridges, with an estimated expenditure of $9 million as part of a larger $20 million initiative. Additionally, the construction of a new hangar for tenant AAR is underway, with $13 million earmarked for completion in fiscal year 2026.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue monitoring financial performance and adjusting strategies as necessary to ensure the airport's operational and capital needs are met effectively. The trust will reconvene to finalize the budget approval in the coming weeks.