Easton Airport is thrilled to announce the milestone of 1 million recorded operations, logged by the Easton Airport Air Traffic Control Tower on Saturday, July 27, 2024. This significant event underscores the airport’s importance in the local aviation community, celebrating its substantial economic impact on the region.
The milestone operation was conducted by N473CM, piloted by Preston Hull with Easton Aviation’s Flight Instructor Nyck Shirkey and Preston’s father, Scott Hull, along for the flight. The aircraft is operated by Easton Aviation, a longtime flight training business located at Easton Airport and owned by Michele Anstatt. She had the honor of piloting the very first operation recorded by the Air Traffic Control Tower on November 14, 2007.
“We are incredibly excited to have been a part of this historic milestone,” Easton Aviation owner Michele Anstatt said. “Being part of the first flight back in 2007 was special, and to now see our flight school, with Nyck, Preston, and Scott, conduct the millionth operation is wonderful. It’s a testament to the growth and evolution of the vibrant community here at Easton Airport.”
In the days leading up to the milestone, excitement was palpable at Easton Airport. Favorable weather conditions moved in after a week of rainy weather, allowing operations to ramp up towards the end of the week. By Friday evening, the count was just 180 operations shy of the milestone. Local media covered the countdown to 1 million operations throughout the week, adding to the excitement.
In the control tower during the milestone event was veteran air traffic controller Eloy Reyes, who has managed air traffic at Easton Airport for ten years. Eloy had the honor of issuing the milestone “Cleared for Takeoff.”
Easton Airport’s achievement of 1 million operations is a testament to the dedication of the air traffic controllers, airport’s staff, pilots, and the broader aviation community.
“We are incredibly proud to reach this milestone,” Easton Airport Manager Micah Risher said. “This accomplishment reflects the hard work and commitment of everyone involved with the airport over the years. We look forward to continuing to serve our community and support the growth of aviation in the region.”
Easton Airport is not only a hub for aviation enthusiasts but also a vital economic engine for Talbot County and the surrounding area. The airport supports hundreds of jobs, ranging from aviation-related positions to roles in hospitality and tourism. Local businesses benefit from the influx of visitors and the airport’s operations, contributing significantly to the economic vitality of the region.
Easton Airport (ESN) is a general aviation airport located two miles north of historic downtown Easton, Maryland in Talbot County. The airport is owned and operated by Talbot County and provides essential access for aviation enthusiasts, corporate pilots, and local businesses. Easton Airport is one of the busiest general aviation facilities in Maryland, linking Talbot County to the rest of the world. For more information, visit www.eastonairport.com or follow the airport on Facebook and Instagram @EastonAirport.