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Published on: 7/24/2002
Last Visited: 10/17/2003
Scappoose Industrial Airpark, developed over 20 years ago and operated by the Port of St. Helens in Oregon, is home to more than 120 aircraft, according to Peter Williamson, executive director there.With 200 acres and an option to buy 435 more, it is also home to 50 jobs in three manufacturing firms, with one more in the wings.Employers include Oregon Aero, which makes components for the military; Sports Copter, a maker of recreational aircraft, and Composites Unlimited, a manufacturer of airplane body parts.
Williamson noted that another firm, Sherpa, is going through the Federal Aviation Administration's certification process, in advance of launching production of heavy-lift bush planes.
While the growth has been slow, the port has attracted a base of well-paying jobs.
With a 5,100-foot runway, lights, an instrument approach and weather station, 'We have tried to make it into a 24-hour, seven day a week business airport," Williamson said.
"We fill a complementary niche," he said, noting recreational use, along with a satellite club facility, an antique airplane club, military training and military and commercial pilot training.