The Cynthiana airport encountered several challenges before its approval in 1959, with Judge Executive Musser Carroll casting the tie-breaking vote to finally approve the airport plan.
After receiving the airport's final approval, the fiscal court sold 53.2 acres of county farm property to the incoming airport board for $30,000. Additionally, the county contributed $12,500 towards the construction of the airfield.
In 1962, a terminal building/office was built. Seventy-five percent (75%) of the construction was done by volunteers who donated their time and the majority of the material was donated by local businesses. A couple years later, the maintenance hangar was added to the end of the building.
The Flood of 1997
Several changes have been made over the years but the biggest change came in 1997. Bobby Craft had only been Chairman of the airport for a few months when the unimaginable happened.
When it started raining on the morning of March 1, 1997, no one had any idea what was about happen.
The unexpected rain was just the beginning of a catastrophic flood that would change the course of many lives and leave a lasting impact on the community. As the floodwaters relentlessly surged throughout the day, people were taken by surprise and left unprepared for the ensuing destruction that unfolded
The devastating scene that greeted Bobby and the other board members as they finally were able to reach the airport was one of utter destruction and loss. The airport terminal building and hangars had been overtaken by the flood waters. The realization that it was too late hit them hard, and they were faced with the daunting task of rebuilding and starting over in the wake of such immense destruction. Twenty-three aircraft were submerged in the flood waters, leaving pilots with mud filled airplanes.
A long time friend of the airport, Art Morgan lost three aircraft. Art began restoring these airplanes after the flood, but did not get see them fly again. Art passed away in 2001, his Starduster was eventually finished and continues to soar through the skies today. It is unknown what happen to his other two aircraft, a low wing Aeronca and a Citabria.
It is commendable that despite the challenges brought on by the flood, the airport has managed to make progress in implementing changes. This highlights the resilience and adaptability of the airport board in overcoming adversity and working towards improvement. Their ability to push forward amidst difficulties demonstrates a commitment to maintaining and enhancing the airport for all to enjoy.
In the aftermath of the flood, a notable achievement was reached in 2005 when the airport received a federal grant. This grant allowed for the expansion of the runway from 3,200 to 3,850 feet, all within a budget of $450,000.
The airport achieved a significant milestone when it secured funding in 2009 from the Kentucky Department of Aviation thanks to the strategic decision-making of Chairman Craft. Despite Cynthiana not being initially included in the state's plans for terminal buildings, Chairman Craft proactively engaged with the airport board and local officials to advocate for the inclusion of the Cynthiana-Harrison County Airport. Together, they successfully arranged a meeting with the Kentucky Department of Aviation Commissioner to request the construction of a new terminal building outside the flood zone. The construction of the building started in October 2009 and was not completed until May of 2012
Following the completion of the terminal building and hangar in 2012, there was no looking back. Utilizing private funds, the board successfully erected a six-bay hangar that was promptly occupied. of a taxiway in 2015 significantly improved the safety of aircraft operations at the airport. Prior to its construction, pilots had to taxi dohe runway, leading to potential safety hazards, especially during events like Young Eagles where multiple planes were taxiing simultaneously. The new taxiway not only facilitated a smoother flow of air traffic but also reduced the risk of accidents and improved overall efficiency at the airpor
The addition of a taxiway in 2015 significantly improved the safety of aircraft operations at the airport. Prior to its construction, pilots had to taxi down the runway, leading to potential safety hazards, especially during events like Young Eagles where multiple planes were taxiing simultaneously. The new taxiway not only facilitated a smoother flow of air traffic but also reduced the risk of accidents and improved overall efficiency at the airport.
“Build it and they will come”
Airport board members, both past and present, can take pride in their accomplishments. The airport has become a cherished destination for pilots and aviation enthusiasts, who now have a place they can truly call home. Thanks to positive feedback from fellow pilots, the Cynthiana-Harrison County Airport has gained a reputation as one of the top airports to visit in the Commonwealth, attracting pilots from all corners of the United States.
2025
