Jet fuel is expected to be available next week at the Mount Olive Municipal Airport.
The 10, 000 gallon tank has already been set up and electrical wiring for automated equipment is being installed this week.
It culminates months of effort to provide jet fuel for incoming aircraft.
Mount Olive Town Manager Charles Brown said the availability of jet fuel at the local airport expands its attractiveness, because now jet traffic can be handled on a regular basis.
A lot of maintenance on jet aircraft has been done recently and that type work could increase.
Brown said local fixed base operator Mike Bass still has to go to Charlotte and other places for jet maintenance work, but now it provides and opportunity for the jet craft to come to Mount Olive.
"I think this increases the visibility of Mount Olive from an economic development standpoint," said Brown.
He also noted that a 2007 study by the North Carolina Department of Commerce revealed that the local airport contributed $4 million to the Mount Olive and area economy annually.
He said another impact study is currently under way, and the numbers will most likely show a substantial increase simply because of the extended runway to accommodate jet aircraft.
The town manager also noted that the presence of two operating airports in Wayne County is unique and has more economic impact than people realize.
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