The North Carolina Forest Service (NCFS) has moved into a new $7 million hangar complex at Duplin County Airport (KDPL) in Kenansville, North Carolina, about one hour east of Fayetteville.

The NCFS relocated 10 staffers from the Kinston Regional Jetport (KISO) to the new facility, which serves as its Eastern Aviation Hub. The regional facility includes two hangars, office space and other infrastructure. 

KDPL, a county-owned public airport, managed the construction project with state funding administered by the North Carolina Department of Transportation aviation division.

Forest Fire Detection/Suppression

The NCFS Eastern Aviation Hub provides forest fire detection and suppression service across the state, including in national forests, national parks and military installations. The NCFS also assists with forest management, pest control and water quality programs as well as with emergency and land management activities.

On Feb. 24, the Duplin County Airport Commission and Duplin County Economic Development Commission hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to welcome the forest service to the new hangar facility.

“This new hangar positions our Forest Service Aviation Program for the future, and this beautiful facility sets us up to continue serving North Carolina,” Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said. “It’s important for us to have the space and resources to manage and protect our state’s forestland.”