Governor Jindal has proclaimed December 2011 as “General Aviation Appreciation Month” in the state of Louisiana, affirming the multifaceted role that general aviation plays in the state. From enabling commerce to playing a critical role in emergency response, general aviation contributes over two billion dollars to the state’s economy. 

St. Tammany has two general aviation airports, the St. Tammany Regional Airport and the Slidell Municipal Airport. Together, they provide services to the 225 aircraft registered in St. Tammany as well as visitors.

The Slidell Municipal Airport is able to handle small corporate jets with its 5,000 foot runway. It’s proximity to I-12 makes it an ideal site for business use for eastern St. Tammany Parish. 

The St. Tammany Regional Airport is centrally located in the parish on Highway 36. While smaller than its sister airport in Slidell, the Regional Airport has just finished an extension of its apron and taxiway with more improvements planned. 

“It is important to continue increasing the capacity of our airports,” said Parish President Pat Brister. “Transportation by air is very important as we position ourselves for future economic growth.”

“The Slidell Municipal Airport is one of the largest general aviation airports in Louisiana and it is extremely important to the City of Slidell and St. Tammany Parish,” said Slidell Mayor Freddy Drennan. “Two days after Hurricane Katrina, the Slidell Airport was the only operating airport in the region and was essential during our recovery after the storm.”

Both airports are members of the Louisiana Airport Managers & Associates. LAMA was established in 1970 to provide a forum for the exchange of aviation management ideas, to ensure the promotion of both aviation and airport interests, to foster the development of educational programs and scholarships to students based in aviation related studies and/or programs within the state of Louisiana, and to provide a strong credible influence with the state legislative body on legislation concerning aviation and airports in Louisiana.

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