KEYSTONE HEIGHTS – Keystone Heights Airport is celebrating its 80th anniversary. It was established in 1942 as an Army Airfield and was built by the U.S. Army Corps as a support field for Camp Blanding.

It was initially known as Crystal Lake airfield until December 1942 when it became known as Keystone Army Airfield. During WWII the airfield was home to the AAFSAT Strategic Reconnaissance School. The land was deeded to the City of Keystone Heights after the war in 1947.

“We are one of 43 army airfields from World War II,” said Maria Searcy, the airport manager.

As of now, the airfield is still used for military training exercises where Allied countries send their pilots to train. In addition, parachute training, recurrence training, night vision approach, equipment drops and mobilization are some of the uses that are practiced at the airfield.

However, Keystone Heights Airport not only deals with military training but also with non-military activities. Instructors are provided for those who want to become to become a certified private pilot. They also host Aerobatic aircraft pilots in which they train for competitions.

“We are one of the few airports left in the state of Florida that still has an aerobatic box,” Searcy said.

The airport leases to non-aviation-related organizations like Camp Crystal, the Sportsman’s Club and Florida International Rally and Motorsports Park.

The FIRM hosted the final race of Travis Pastrana’s Nitro Rallycross Series last December. Sunday’s finals were sold out by midday Saturday, and earned high praise from Pastrana, who said, “The great part is this track was so awesome.”

The FIRM is being considered to fill the only remaining spot on this year’s Nitro RX schedule.

The airport also is working on expanding its facility through the West Side Project which is a part of the airport’s master plan, including new hangers, a second entrance, and more runways to allow more planes into the airport. The project will cover about 200 acres and will bring more jobs for the local people.

“Our long-term goal is to create jobs here in the Lake Region,” Searcy said. “We are hoping we can entice companies like distribution centers, or lightweight manufacturing. Something that will be good for the community.”

Keystone Airport is working to partner with Keystone Heights High to teach students about aviation and provide them with trade skills.

To learn more about Keystone Heights Airport visit www.keystoneairport.com or call (352) 473-0031.