WALNUT RIDGE — A city-owned airport in Lawrence County will lose its military contract unless the military reconsiders its decision not to renew.
Michelle Anthony, manager of the Walnut Ridge Airport, said the airport would have to sell 50,000 gallons of jet fuel to the military every year to retain the contract. She said the airport risks losing hundreds of thousands of dollars in fuel sales if the contract isn't renewed before its expiration in March.
The Arkansas National Guard purchases fuel and also conducts training missions at the airport. Anthony says military aircraft from Fort Knox, Fort Campbell and other bases stop by the airport to buy fuel during cross-country trips.
The Jonesboro Sun reported the public-use airport sells 67,000 gallons of jet fuel, half of which goes to the military, each year.