Major expansion at Hillsboro Airport draws mixed response

Hillsboro Airport (HIO) in Oregon is set to undergo a significant expansion with the addition of five new hangars, developed by Sky Harbour, on a 190,000-square-foot site. This expansion is part of a comprehensive 20-year plan aimed at modernizing the airport's facilities and meeting the growing demand for business aviation. The Port of Portland commissioners voted unanimously to approve the project, which is designed to enhance aviation infrastructure without compromising environmental standards. However, local critics, such as Miki Barnes from Oregon Aviation Watch, express concerns about potential increases in noise and air pollution due to the additional aircraft. The airport currently operates below projected levels, with 36 aircraft expected in 2024 instead of the anticipated 54.

Documents indicate that noise monitoring systems and regulations are in place to mitigate sound levels, and the new aircraft are among the quietest and most fuel-efficient. The development is projected to average only 8-10 operations per week, significantly lower than the previous Intel Shuttle operations, which had 9-12 daily. Overall, the expansion is positioned to support business aviation while addressing community concerns about environmental impact.