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- calendar_today October 12, 2026
FAA Reversal Keeps Indianapolis Downtown Heliport Open
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has reversed a city-led initiative to close the Indianapolis Downtown Heliport, a decision that has been applauded by Fort Wayne entrepreneur Chuck Surack. Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita announced the decision late last week, signaling a major shift in the city's redevelopment planning and the future role of aviation in downtown Indianapolis.
Chuck Surack's Involvement and Reaction
Chuck Surack, billionaire founder of Sweetwater Sound and owner of Sweetwater Aviation, has been a vocal advocate for keeping the downtown heliport operational. “We had been landing at the downtown heliport in Indy,” Surack stated. “About five years ago I got wind the mayor and the Indianapolis Airport Authority wanted to close that heliport down and I’ve been battling it ever since.”
Surack, who regularly flies into Indianapolis, rallied support from state officials and aviation organizations to keep the heliport open. He noted, "I have the support of the state, Senator Todd Young and Todd Rokita and the governor, and all the aviation organizations were in support of keeping this open. The mayor was kind of out on an island by himself, suggesting it should be shut down."
Original Plans for Heliport Site and Redevelopment Ambitions
The heliport, described as underutilized and lacking maintenance, is situated where Mayor Joe Hogsett contemplated constructing a quarter-billion-dollar stadium to attract a Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise to Indianapolis. However, the Indiana Statehouse did not back the stadium plan, which relied on revenue from undeveloped downtown parcels. MLS has not demonstrated urgency in expanding or relocating a franchise to the city.
The city had intended for the Indianapolis Airport Authority to sell the heliport site to the city for $10.88 million, which Surack says was around four million less than he was willing to pay. He remains interested in buying the property: "If they want to put it up for sale, I would be happy to buy it and keep it operating as a heliport," Surack remarked.
Controversy and Future of the Heliport
After the FAA’s reversal, Mayor Hogsett commented, “The FAA decision does not reflect the priorities, needs or interests of our city and its residents.” Surack countered, “I personally believe the mayor is very wrong. Every major city in the country has a heliport in their downtown to serve everything from public safety to travel to VIP.” He emphasized the site’s location along the train tracks, stating it is convenient and unobtrusive.
Surack also highlighted evolving aviation technology, specifically eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft, which the FAA may approve within the next 12 to 24 months. He suggested these vehicles could soon connect downtown Indianapolis to nearby areas such as Carmel quickly and at reduced cost compared to traditional helicopters. Surack indicated he would clean up and revitalize the heliport if given the opportunity to purchase it.
Broader Impacts on Downtown Indianapolis Redevelopment and Stadium Proposals
The reversal has affected other urban redevelopment projects. The City Market renovation is facing challenges, and the Department of Metropolitan Development is once again seeking bids for the redevelopment of the Old City Hall and nearby parking lots after prior efforts stalled. Surack owns property adjacent to the heliport and remains interested in broader development discussions, though he states, "my big thing is saving the heliport."
The city may consider building a soccer stadium in the parking lots south of Lucas Oil Stadium instead. Surack is a minority owner of Ersal Ozdemir's Indy 11 club, which has sought MLS franchise status for years. Previous efforts to build a stadium on the former Diamond Chain factory site fell short due to logistical challenges and the discovery of historic graves.
Outlook for Indianapolis Sports and Redevelopment
Hogsett indicated recent discussions with MLS Commissioner Don Garber about new stadium options and has received positive responses from organizations such as the Colts and Pacers. However, Pacers Sports & Entertainment is no longer interested in operating an MLS franchise. With the Women's World Cup coming to the U.S. in 2031, Hogsett expressed hope that Indianapolis could play host to some matches, reinforcing his interest in expanding the city’s major league sports offerings.
Source: fox59.com.
