Fueling Hope: Support Efforts at Jackson County Airport

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, small airports across Western North Carolina have transformed into vital distribution centers for their communities. Dedicated private pilots have generously volunteered their time, aircraft, and fuel to transport essential supplies to the most affected regions.

One notable example is the Jackson County Airport (24A), a 3,200-foot runway nestled on a ridgeline in Sylva, North Carolina. Managed by local resident Jim Rowell and lacking a control tower, this airport has seen a surge of activity since the hurricane, with hundreds of private planes and National Guard helicopters conducting air deliveries. County resident, Gold Star Wife, and veteran's advocate Crystal Cochran jumped into action organzing Operation Air Drop. Together their efforts have become a well oiled machine for delivering aid to WNC. The airport’s ramp has evolved into a hub for supply distribution, bolstered by the support of volunteers from around the county.

To support this crucial work, we have established a fund aimed at covering the refueling costs for the pilots arriving at the airport. Additionally, the fund will address immediate needs related to the increased aviation traffic and volunteer efforts. Your support will help ensure that this vital resource continues to serve our community effectively in this time of need.

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This fundraiser has been set up by the children and grandchildren of Jim Rowell. For decades, we've seen our father fight hard to secure funding and support to keep the airport safe and operational for our community. Since the storm, he's spent each day as a ground controller, radio in hand, helping to safely direct flight traffic to and from the airport. On top of that he's helped to organize many volunteers arriving at the airport. For the past several years, he's worked to secure additional funding from the county and state to support a new terminal building and stabilize the runway. Thankful for the pilots bringing supplies to our community, he asked that any funds be used to support their refueling costs at 24A.