Media Release

The Stillwater Regional Airport (SWO) completed their annual Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Safety Inspection and passed with zero discrepancies, the highest rating a commercial airport can receive.

The comprehensive safety inspection was April 25-27, 2022, and focused on areas such as airport emergency response training and capability, aircraft rescue and firefighting equipment, and condition of runway and taxiway pavement.

“Safety has always been top priority at our airport and this perfect inspection is a direct result of our remarkable staff who work tirelessly with this in mind,” Airport Director Paul Priegel said.

The inspection also includes markings and lighting, training of staff and airport users, fuel storage and handling, obstructions to airspace, wildlife hazard management, and snow and ice removal.

“This inspection is so thorough, even the most meticulous airports generally receive a few discrepancies from each inspection,” included Priegel. “To have a perfect inspection is rare with less than 15% of the airports nationwide receiving this outcome.”

SWO continues to make facility improvements and is currently in the final phase of a multi-year apron reconstruction. The $16.5 million project was almost entirely funded by the FAA and has helped pave the way for current and future commercial airline growth.

“Stillwater Airport leadership and staff are diligently committed to providing safe, professional, convenient and reliable commercial air service for Stillwater and surrounding communities. Their resilience through challenging times and their meticulous hard work is reflected in the FAA inspection,” said Stillwater Mayor Will Joyce.

Although SWO has never faced significant discrepancies in past inspections, previous minor discrepancies have been faded airfield pavement markings, change in regulations, and slight facility modifications. The previous inspection discrepancies were documented and quickly repaired and remedied.

The airport recently acquired equipment to better combat snow and ice to increase reliability of commercial flights. Also new, the commercial terminal design and expansion will begin soon and expected to be complete in 2026.