DeKalb County BOC Approves Hangar Development to Reposition Flights and Provide Revenue for Community Development and PDK Airport Revitalization

Aircraft repositioning to aid traffic, noise, and emissions reduction, while revenue facilitates community investments, including Friends of PDK group and Community Relations Manager.  

On Tuesday, Nov.18, in a 6-1 vote, the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners approved a $45 million development by Sky Harbour, a home-based operator for business aircraft at DeKalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK), with no financial appropriation from the county.

“I am very sensitive to development at PDK and its impact on the environment and local residents but we will use this project to reduce the major concerns expressed by the local community,” said DeKalb CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson. “I will be forming a community-based friends’ group to work alongside the airport and county to ensure PDK Airport is family friendly with great parks, dining, and engaging experiences that educate and entertain.”

Sky Harbour will develop eight hangers on 12.8 acres on the eastside of the airport.

“PDK is one of the nation’s top executive airports and businesses want to be located here. Through this development, we can ensure continuous economic growth, while also supporting the concerns of our local community,” said Hunter Hines, PDK Airport Director. “We can offer noise relief to residents in DeKalb County and provide much needed hangar space that will generate significant revenue to both the airport and the County.

The development is estimated to generate a financial impact of $576 million over the entire lease term of 50 years of which $66 million in direct ground lease revenue goes to PDK. DeKalb County, DeKalb County School Board and the City of Chamblee tax revenues are expected to be enhanced by $510 million over the course of the contract.

As part of the project, $1 million will be set aside annually for reinvestment into the local community. Additionally, a Friends of PDK group will be formed to advise on future airport projects and community investments. 

“To ensure we have open lines of communication with residents, we have created a full time position for a Community Relations Manager. We are dedicated to responsible growth and healthy communities, so I’m excited to work with the community to ensure we create optimal outcomes for all, said Cochran-Johnson. 

PDK is currently conducting an Air Quality & Noise Study to determine and monitor environmental impacts. The study is expected to be completed by June 2026. The county is dedicated to ongoing analysis to ensure ensure public and environmental safety.