By Millicent I. Parker
Thursday, November 13, 2025, heralded a new direction in growth for the Kansas City Lee’s Summit Regional Airport with the ribbon-cutting for the new Hangar 2 facility. The Hangar 2 development represents a major investment in the City’s growing regional airport and supports Lee’s Summit’s commitment to expanding aviation opportunities, workforce development and economic growth. The project includes a 50,000-square-foot facility featuring aircraft storage, office space, first-class amenities for aviation customers, an observation deck, FBO operations and Summit Tech’s Aerospace Academy, offering students and aspiring pilots access to real-world aviation instruction and training opportunities.
“This facility strengthens Lee’s Summit’s position as a regional leader in business aviation while creating opportunities for education and innovation,” Joel Arrington, airport manager, said. “Hangar 2 will play a key role in future development, linking economic growth with workforce training through partnerships like the Summit Tech’s Aerospace Academy.”
In addition to serving as an aviation hub, Hangar 2 is home to Summit Aero, the airport’s full-service Fixed Base Operator (FBO). Summit Aero provides amenities including a modern passenger lobby, full concierge service, pilot lounge and flight-planning area, strengthening the airport’s role as a premier aviation center for the Kansas City metro.
The Hangar 2 project was funded by both general obligation bonds approved by voters in April 2023 and the Transportation Sales Tax. Funding for the Aerospace Academy is being provided by the Lee’s Summit School District.
