'We had our best revenue year ever'

EPHRATA — The Port of Ephrata has made significant strides in 2024, achieving several key objectives designed to enhance its economic viability and improve operational capacity, according to the port’s Executive Director David Lanman.  

“I think it went pretty darn good,” Lanman said. “We had a very productive year, and we're setting the foundation for future growth.” 

In 2024, the port not only completed pivotal projects but also saw the best revenue year in its history, according to Lanman.  

“This year’s success is coupled with the fact two thirds of the commissioners are new, and at least a third of the city council is brand new over the course of the last two years,” Lanman said. “So, I think it's just new blood coming in and collectively, with the mindset that, ‘Hey, let's really see what we can do to grow this community.’ We're working together to try to see if we can make things happen.” 

2024 Achievements 

Among the key accomplishments for the Port of Ephrata was the successful completion of the Jet-A tank project, which will be finalized soon. The port is selling Jet-A fuel out of a temporary trailer, but the permanent fuel tank is almost complete.  

“It's going to ultimately change the dynamic of this airport, because now we can serve turbine jets, turboprops, the larger aircraft, aircraft that represent more revenue. Because the hope is to have a home for corporate jets to offer a company that's looking for relocation,” Lanman said.  

He also pointed out the groundwork laid for future projects, including perimeter fencing and security enhancements. 

Lanman said the Port of Ephrata reported a 100% tenancy rate across its properties available for lease and achieved an increase in flight operations. 

“We had an increase of 18%, the best flight operational count ever at this airport, meaning aircraft movements,” Lanman said.  

The port also updated its website earlier in the year.  

“We updated the website to be in a better position for marketing purposes,” Lanman said.  

The Civil Air Patrol and the International Aerobatic Club have resumed activities at the port, contributing to its vibrancy post-COVID, according to Lanman. Furthermore, the port hosted its second annual Association of Washington Aerial Applicators fly-in event. Lanman said there is a good chance the fly-in event will return in Oct. 2025.  

Financially, the port experienced a substantial increase in revenue, up nearly half a million dollars compared to previous years, according to Lanman. 

“We had our best revenue year ever,” Lanman said.  

2025 Plans 

Looking ahead, the Port of Ephrata aims to build upon its 2024 successes.  

“The plan for 2025 is to continue the development of our objectives to become more viable,” Lanman said.  

Among the anticipated projects, the port will start repairs on runway 3-21, the major runway, and continue internal projects that include fixing the roofs of three World War II-era hangars. Additionally, plans are in motion to construct perimeter security fencing by the end of 2025. 

One aspect of the port's future is the potential opening of a 45,000-square-foot hangar in early 2026. This move is expected to significantly boost available hangar space.  

A rental car service is also set to be introduced, which will provide transportation options for visitors flying into the port.  

“This is going to be nice to have, and it does help out the people that fly in,” Lanman said.  

In addition, Lanman is optimistic about future opportunities for aerospace expansion and improvements to the rail warehouse complex.  

“We have had discussions with private capital for additional warehousing, but the prospective tenants need to come to terms,” Lanman said.  

However, the port will hold off on investing in new infrastructure until there is a committed tenant in place to ensure that there is a valid revenue stream to support future developments. 

“We're just not investing in new infrastructure until we know we've got the revenue stream to cover it,” Lanman said.  

Multiple projects are under consideration but until clients are finalized, Lanman said it is hard to know what the port’s next big project is.  

    Last year in October, the Port of Ephrata had its second annual Association of Washington Aerial Applicators fly-in event. The event is expected to return this year.
  

    The Port of Ephrata saw a 100% tenancy rate across property for lease. The port leases hangars like the one above for clients to store planes.
  

    Lanman