Located at Manhattan Regional Airport (KMHK), Kansas Jet Center began operations in May of 1989 as Kansas Air Center. Prior to creating the business, the company’s president, Ron Nordt, was a charter pilot flying out of Manhattan. Throughout the years Kansas Air Center actively promoted general aviation, sponsoring open houses and public events raising the visibility of aviation in the region. Now as Kansas Jet Center, the support of general aviation will continue.

When commercial service was originated by American Airlines in 2011, it became clear the existing passenger terminal was inadequate due to the need for increased security. As plans were drawn up to increase the footprint, the space occupied by Kansas Air Center’s building was needed for that expansion to house airport administration. The expansion created the opportunity to build a new and more functional facility with dedicated ramp space for general aviation.

HISTORY

Kansas Air Center was first located on the East side of Manhattan Municipal Airport in the original commercial terminal adjacent to the historic stone hangar. When the terminal facilities were moved to where the new passenger terminal is being constructed, Kansas Air Center moved to an adjacent facility next to the passenger terminal in 1995. That facility was a dramatic step up from the original space and allowed better service for both pilots and passengers. However, with increased air charters supporting Kansas State Athletics and military-related travel, the space was outgrown.

When commercial service was originated by American Airlines in 2011, it became clear the existing passenger terminal was inadequate due to the need for increased security. As plans were drawn up to increase the footprint, the space occupied by Kansas Air Center’s building was needed for that expansion to house airport administration. The expansion created the opportunity to build a new and more functional facility with dedicated ramp space for general aviation.