Harnett Regional Jetport (HRJ), is making significant contributions to the local and state economy, highlighting the critical role of aviation in driving growth. According to the recent data from the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation, the economic impact of HRJ was $203.4 million based on 2023 data.

Harnett Regional Jetport’s Economic Impact included:

• 700 jobs supported
• $8.4 million in tax revenue
• $59.4 million in personal income
• 51,300 annual operations
• 38 based aircraft

“Aerospace and aviation are big deals in North Carolina, and in Harnett County," said Stephen Barrington, Director of Harnett County Economic Development. "Over the course of one year, Harnett Regional Jetport (HRJ) saw massive increases in multiple categories – an economic output increase of $56.78 million from the year before; state and local taxes grew by over $2.4 million; and personal income grew by approximately $16 million over the same year. HRJ is in the top 20% in each category across General Aviation Airports in North Carolina, with HRJ’s economic output being in the top 12%. Continued investments in HRJ will continue to benefit the county and new and expanding companies who rely on this asset as part of their transportation infrastructure."

Harnett Regional Jetport continues to support military operations, emergency response efforts, small to medium sized local businesses, Campbell University, training operations, and the public for recreational use.

Over the past decade, HRJ has upgraded and improved existing infrastructure to include a new 7,000+ square foot terminal, apron expansion, and runway rehabilitation.

“Harnett Regional Jetport is a critical economic engine for Harnett County,” said Brent Trout, County Manager. “HRJ not only strengthens our local economy, but provides businesses, residents, and guests seamless opportunities to connect with the broad region and beyond.”

Harnett Regional Jetport remains a key asset for economic growth. As the County continues to invest in infrastructure and innovation, the airport will remain a cornerstone of progress for years to come.

North Carolina’s aviation industry contributes $88 billion each year to the state’s economy according to the 2025 North Carolina: The State of Aviation report.

To learn more about Harnett Regional Jetport, visit www.harnett.org/airport

To explore the full 2025 aviation report, visit www.ncdot.gov/aviation.

Harnett County is one of the fastest growing counties in North Carolina with approximately 142,000 residents. Harnett's tagline of "Strong Roots, New Growth," describes a county in transition, one that values its rural agricultural heritage while also embracing new growth and industry. Harnett County is optimally located just between North Carolina's capital city of Raleigh and the internationally recognized Research Triangle Park to the north, and the nation's largest military installation in Fort Liberty to the south. 

For more information, contact Community Relations Director, Desiree Patrick at publicinfo@harnett.org or (910) 893-7555.