Utah’s West Desert Airpark Triumphs in Appeal, Secures Business License Renewal
West Desert Airpark in Utah has won a crucial legal victory after successfully appealing the town of Fairfield’s decision to deny its business license renewal. This allows the public-use airport to continue operations.
In a 13-page decision, a hearing officer ruled that the town lacked legal justification to deny the license. The small community of Fairfield, with fewer than 200 residents, had denied the airpark’s business license renewal in December. The reasons cited were concerns from residents about increased air traffic, noise, and privacy issues.
Co-founder Mark Pringle emphasized that the 40-acre plot was purchased before the town was even incorporated in 2004. The airport went public in 2018 and has since become an important resource for general aviation in Utah. “All the airports in Northern Utah are just way overloaded,” Pringle noted, highlighting the airpark’s role in addressing capacity issues.
The airpark is home to Rocky Mountain Kitplanes, identified as Utah’s only light aircraft manufacturer, and the West Desert Flight School. A Utah Department of Transportation audit determined that the airpark was in full compliance with local ordinances and codes, and had received proper approval to construct a new runway.
The facility has received support from the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association and aviation educators who emphasize its importance for flight training, particularly for students who need access to less-congested airspace for safe learning environments.
Source: https://aero-news.net/index.cfm?do=main.textpost&id=B90527A6-8BD0-4862-9564-7DDB04C16E66