A new $1 million aircraft fueling system is now operational at Gallatin County Airport (8GK) in Sparta, Kentucky.
“This new fuel system is a runway to opportunity for Gallatin County,” said Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray. “By enhancing refueling services, we strengthen the airport’s role in supporting business aviation, flight training activities, and increased connectivity in general aviation across northern Kentucky.”
The fuel system project at Kentucky’s newest airport is funded by the Commonwealth of Kentucky through the Kentucky Department of Aviation. It began in May 2025 and was completed in October.
More improvements are underway at the airport, including the construction of aircraft hangars and a terminal building, which will also spur an increase in the number of aircraft based at the airport once complete, state aviation officials said.
“Having a full-service fuel system now means we’re better positioned to serve corporate aircraft, flight training, and visiting pilots,” said Gallatin County Judge/Executive Ryan Morris, who also serves as manager of the Gallatin County Airport Board. “This upgrade will increase airport revenue, help offset operational costs, and support future development of hangars, maintenance services, and more aviation opportunities for our county.”
Gallatin County Airport was officially opened in the summer of 2023, with expectations of becoming a home base for more than 20 aircraft and hosting approximately 13,000 takeoffs annually.
For more information: Transportation.KY.gov/Aviation
A million dollars for a fuel system? That’s nuts. More evidence that taxpayers are being soaked by the industrial public works cabal.
How many fueling systems have you built? Do you have any idea what the requirements are? This looks like it was a major project, not just replacing a couple of pumps. A local gas station owner told me it recently cost him $400K to just upgrade his pumps. Instead of soaking taxpayers, this looks to me like they are making a good investment to help ensure the future viability of general aviation in Kentucky, something we should be applauding.