The Kansas City Aviation Department has selected Airside Innovation Missouri to develop the last 20 acres of available land at Kansas City Downtown Airport – Wheeler Field (MKC).

The $55 million project will deliver a new fixed base operation (FBO) led by Kansas City–based Apex Aero Center. The development includes a 15,000 square-foot terminal building and more than 150,000 square feet of new hangar, office and maintenance space to support business, government and general aviation.

“The Downtown Airport is an incredibly important asset to not just the Aviation Department but the City as a whole. This development shows the continued growth of MKC and its importance to the city as an economic driver,” says Melissa Cooper, director of aviation for Kansas City.

Airside Innovation Missouri LLC is a joint venture between Airside FBO and Eastside Innovation.

Kyle Eiserer, founder of Airside FBO and president of Apex Aero Center, says: “Our team's commitment to excellence and our deep roots in Kansas City aviation are reflected in this project. I've dreamed of this for years and am proud to see it coming to fruition to serve the city's significantly growing demand.”

The project also includes a planned expansion of the Red Tail Academy, a Kansas City–based nonprofit focused on educating and mentoring underrepresented youth in aviation.

“This project represents a powerful alignment of public, private and philanthropic partners,” adds Eastside Innovation CEO Erik Murray.

Construction is expected to begin in 2026, with completion targeted for early to mid-2027.