Howley: “Just fun stuff …”
NEW WINDSOR – The CEO of Independent Helicopters based at Stewart Airport is also the chief pilot of the five-helicopter operation. Three are based at Stewart and the other two are at Saratoga County Airport.
Heather Howley briefed the Stewart Airport Commission about her business on Tuesday, but she also provided her perspective on how to grow the airport and that includes the need for more airlines, lower air fares, a bigger terminal to accommodate anticipated growth and development of a Stewart campus with retail opportunities.
“When people fly in or drive in, maybe it’s another excuse
just to come to the airport,” Howley said. “There are
places for them to shop; maybe they are mom and pop shops, not necessarily
big retail stores, restaurants and other things to do; maybe there is
a nail salon. Just fun stuff for people to hang out at the airport as
opposed to go to the airport just to fly away.”
Howley started her helicopter business just seven years ago when she
was 25 and with only $25. Now a resident of the Mid-Hudson, she pointed
out the region has so much to offer and to do including activities and
dining along the Hudson River waterfront.
