Surry County has completed a $5.6 million expansion of the Mount Airy/Surry County Airport terminal, significantly increasing the size and capability of the general aviation facility.

Supported by $4.5 million in State of North Carolina funding with the balance provided by Surry County, the project replaces a 1,800 sq ft building with a 9,500 sq ft terminal designed to meet growing demand. The expanded structure includes upgraded passenger areas, a dedicated pilot lounge and quiet room, meeting and conference space and provision for a future café tenant.

Chris Knopf, county manager at Surry County, says: “The County and airport authority are excited to occupy this new facility, which was generously funded by the State of North Carolina. Partnering with the Surry Economic Development Partnership in utilising the space showcases the airport as a tremendous economic driver for our community.”

Bill Goings, airport authority chairman and chairman of the Surry County board of commissioners, says: “The Mount Airy/ Surry County Airport new terminal building is the gateway to our county. We are proud of our airport and it's importance to our county.”

Mount Airy/Surry County Airport ranks third among North Carolina general aviation airports by economic impact according to the 2025 State of Aviation Report, generating nearly $741 million in annual output and supporting 2,275 jobs while contributing more than $35.8 million in state and local tax revenue.

Construction began in late 2024 and was completed in late 2025 ahead of schedule, reflecting coordination between county leadership state partners and aviation stakeholders.