FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DEC. 29, 2025
BROWNSVILLE, Texas (December 29, 2025) — Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport (BRO) has celebrated the groundbreaking of a new Hunt PanAm hangar and operations facility, marking the first major project in the company’s expansion following its acquisition by Sun Valley Aviation. The development represents a significant milestone in BRO’s continued growth of general aviation services and its role as a regional economic engine.
Located on BRO’s developing general aviation campus, the facility will support Hunt PanAm’s growing presence in South Texas and enhance the airport’s ability to accommodate a wider range of aviation services. The project is being developed in close coordination with Sun Valley Aviation, BRO’s fixed-base operator.
Pat Kornegay, owner of Hunt PanAm, highlighted the company’s commitment to the region, stating that “[a strong spirit of cooperation with the Airport and city of Brownsville] inspired us to continue our investment. We invested quite heavily in our fuel and infrastructure and our aviation and maintenance business, and now we are going to build a new hangar.”
Hunt PanAm’s decision to expand at BRO reflects the long-term growth potential the company sees at the airport. “Hunt PanAm has been a long-standing partner at our airport, and we’re excited to see their investment here in Brownsville — especially as they expand their operations and enhance the services available to general aviation users,” said Faisal Khalifa, Interim Airport Director.
The new facility advances BRO’s broader strategy to modernize its airfield environment and expand resources for business and private aviation. “At BRO, our goal is to create an airport that supports growth, attracts investment, and serves the needs of our community. Projects like this are a clear example of that vision in action,” added Khalifa. As demand increases across the Rio Grande Valley, the hangar will provide much-needed space for aircraft storage, maintenance operations, and tenant support, reinforcing BRO’s role as a key aviation hub for the region.
As the first project to move forward as part of Hunt PanAm’s expansion at BRO, the new hangar signals the beginning of a larger investment at the airport. “The Hunt PanAm Hangar is a great example of what long-term partnerships and shared vision can achieve and we’re proud to support this next phase of growth at BRO. Today’s groundbreaking represents one step in a broader vision for continued investment and expansion, and we’re excited about what lies ahead for Hunt PanAm and for our airport,” commented Lorena Cardona, Marketing and Business Development Manager.
More details on construction milestones and project timelines will be shared as they become available, although the work is expected to be completed within six months.
###
ABOUT BRO:
Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport (BRO) is located in the heart of Brownsville in the Rio Grande Valley, serving Texas and Mexico. Located minutes from downtown Brownsville and South Padre Island, BRO provides convenient access to major destinations through partnerships with Aerus, American Airlines, and United Airlines. Serving a regional population of 1.43 million and key demand drivers including SpaceX, Rio Grande LNG, and a thriving tourism economy, the airport continues to invest in modern facilities, passenger amenities, and new air service to support the region’s growing economy and vibrant community. The 91,000-square-foot terminal features full international capability and is designed for future expansion as passenger traffic grows. For more information, visit: www.FlyBRO.com.
Lorena Cardona
Marketing and Business Development Manager, BRO
Lorena.e.cardona@brownsvilldetx.gov
