The first phase of Clay Lacy Aviation's expansion and development of its Waterbury-Oxford airport facilities in Connecticut is approaching its scheduled completion this winter. The first 40,000sq ft hangar is now sold out ahead of its planned opening in early 2024, proving the anticipated need for more hangar space throughout the US Northeast and New York metropolitan area.

“We considered aircraft owners' needs first and foremost when developing this project,” says Buddy Blackburn, SVP for fixed-base operations at Waterbury-Oxford. “The overwhelming response has shown that aircraft owners and flight departments have been searching for space to accommodate both current and future aircraft models, and a tailored aircraft storage solution that allows maximum protection and access for clients.”

The $20 million, 11 acre first phase of development will feature a new FBO passenger terminal, executive offices and hangar space that will accommodate today's large-cabin, ultra-long range jets, including the Bombardier Global 7500, the Falcon 10X or the Gulfstream G700. While early commitments have filled up the first hangar, Clay Lacy is still taking reservations for hangars two and three, which have already begun their structural steel phase.

The Oxford hangars have 29ft doors and sufficient floor space to accommodate larger wingspan aircraft. Corporate flight departments with two or more aircraft can be hangared together, a feature that is considerably rare in the tight Tri-State market.

The development also addresses the up-gauging trend in the industry with aircraft wingspan increasing substantially as new models enter service. The facilities are built to handle a range of aircraft, from smaller turboprops to larger trans-continental aircraft that are becoming more and more popular.

With the ongoing Clay Lacy development, Oxford offers considerable advantages to Northeast aircraft owners and operators. It is Connecticut's largest business aviation airport and boasts new US Customs facilities; it is a short flight away from New York-metro airports, with less congestion and flight activity, allowing short taxi times and quick departures; 30 per cent lower costs on hangar and office rentals, and sales tax benefits; higher availability than New York-based airports; runway improvements can accommodate ultra-long range aircraft up to Global 7500; and covered auto parking is available.

“This investment in Connecticut expands and enhances all the services Clay Lacy provides,” Blackburn says. “It further cements the company's commitment to Northeast operators and helps them achieve their aviation goals.”

All the facilities under construction are built in accordance with Clay Lacy's sustainability strategy and will be certified carbon neutral. The facilities include solar panel provisions, electric vehicle charging, electric aircraft charging provisions, efficient building design and sustainable aviation fuel.