Stennis Airport to Begin Construction of $1.2M Jet Engine Run-up Pad  

MS – The construction of a new $1.2 million jet engine run-up pad at the Stennis International Airport in Kiln is set to begin on Monday, with the project’s completion set for the end of April 2023. 

The locally funded pad, estimated to cost $1.2 million, includes new pavement and specialized fittings to perform high-powered jet engine run-up capacity testing. According to the Hancock County Port and Harbor Commission, the new run-up pad will increase the testing and certification of powerful engines, such as the Northrop T-38 Talon. As a result, the project will aid in expanding capabilities for current and new programs with key civil and defense partners. 

The new development also supports the Foreign Military Sales program at the heart of the I-10 Aerospace Corridor. “Stennis Airport will be one of the only general aviation airports in the country with the capability to test jet engines of this caliber,” said Blaine LaFontaine, Hancock County Port & Harbor Commission Executive Director. “These tests and certifications allow our Department of Defense partners to maintain American and allied forces’ warfighting advantage. It will also give general aviation customers a place to test their engines.” 

The engine run-up pad will be located on the south end of Stennis Airport’s 8,500-foot runway. Upon completion, a series of at least 25 tests are planned by the airport tenant and Department of Defense contractor Tyonek. “The construction of this run-up pad will significantly increase the capability for our facilities at Stennis International Airport,” said Paul Stein, Vice President Tyonek Services Group. “Hancock County Port and Harbor Commission is a valued partner, and we look forward to future opportunities.”