WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., today announced the award of a $14.94 million U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) grant to the City of Olive Branch to assist with the purchase of the Olive Branch Airport. The city will become the primary operator of the airfield and will guarantee the continued operations of the facility as a public airport.

“As one of the busiest general aviation airports in the state, the Olive Branch Airport is a prime example of how a strong local airport can help a community attract new businesses and grow the economy,” Wicker said. “With assistance from the Department of Transportation, the city can take ownership of this important asset and guarantee the long-term viability of Olive Branch as a hub of commerce and industry in the greater Memphis area.”

“Transferring ownership of the Olive Branch Airport to the city will increase its attractiveness as a general aviation and business air travel facility. The city will be able to market the facility as an economic development asset to draw industry and other business to North Mississippi,” Hyde-Smith said.

“The City of Olive Branch appreciates Senator Wicker, Senator Hyde-Smith, and the Federal Aviation Administration and their efforts in securing this grant.  The Olive Branch Airport is a vital part of the local economy and bringing it under City ownership will ensure its presence and growth for decades to come,” Olive Branch Mayor Scott Phillips said.

DOT selected Olive Branch for the discretionary grant award to help the city acquire the Olive Branch Airport, which has been in operation since 1972. The airport includes a 6,000-foot runway, an air traffic control tower, and other aviation services. The airport is among the most active general aviation airports in Mississippi and the Memphis metropolitan area. The airport serves as a reliever to Memphis International Airport for general aviation and commercial clients.