West Michigan Regional Airport

Matt Neyens is the relatively new manager of the West Michigan Regional Airport (WMRA). Park Township, Holland City, and Zeeland City support the airport. There are an average of 96 flights a day at the airport. The FAA estimates that the airport brings in $165 million to the economy.

Matt received an aviation degree from Western Michigan University. When he started college, he wasn't really sure what area he wanted to specialize in. An older friend was already in the aviation program and encouraged Matt to give it a try. Matt discovered that he loved working in aviation.

Matt worked at the Kalamazoo airport even before he graduated. He worked for almost 10 years at Denver International Airport, serving in multiple management roles.

Mat has overseen numerous improvements since he arrived last summer. A significant change was to purchase snow removal equipment and have airport staff responsible for its operation. A new taxiway was also finished, expanding access for more business aircraft. 53 aircraft are based at WMRA. Federal grants are based on the number of aircraft (particularly jets) based at an airport, along with the services available.

WMRA has a full-service aviation repair business, a flight school, Wings of Mercy, and Flight Path, which is a volunteer organization that runs training sessions for kids about aviation.