Exciting News: Aviation Facility Unveils New Identity as Fort Meade Executive Airport

BWI's designated reliever airport adopts new name on 25th anniversary, signaling next era of regional aviation growth.

Fort Meade Executive Airport Board at the 2025 Holiday Party

FORT MEADE, MD – December 11, 2025 – The Anne Arundel County Tipton Airport Authority announced today that Tipton Airport will change its name to Fort Meade Executive Airport. The rebrand marks the 25th anniversary of the facility's conversion from a 65-year old military airfield to a public-use airport. The rebrand will help the airport better serve the Baltimore-Washington corridor's expanding aviation needs.

As the BWI Marshall Airport's designated reliever facility, Fort Meade Executive Airport plays an essential role in the regional transportation system. The airport alleviates congestion at BWI by serving general aviation and business aircraft, allowing the commercial airport to focus on airline operations while maintaining robust aviation access throughout Central Maryland.

Beyond serving transient pilots, Fort Meade Executive Airport supports a growing aviation ecosystem including flight training schools, maintenance operations, and aviation businesses. As an active community partner, the airport sponsors educational events for students and supports local organizations. Through partnerships with on-field operators, the airport connects aspiring pilots and aviation professionals with career development opportunities.

"FME is where the region takes flight," noted Michael Wassel, Airport Manager.

The Authority's mission centers on developing the airport into a first-class facility that fulfills its reliever airport role. Over the past two decades, the Authority has systematically upgraded facilities and added new infrastructure to meet evolving regional aviation demands, from business travelers to emergency medical services.

Recognizing its growing importance within its home region, the Authority felt it was necessary to rename the airport. The rebrand follows a comprehensive strategic assessment conducted by marketing firm Alpha Moose, ensuring the new identity reflects both the facility's heritage and its future vision as BWI's strategic partner.

The airport will continue operating under the governance of the Anne Arundel County Tipton Airport Authority. All existing services, facilities, and community programs will continue without interruption. The new branding will be implemented across signage, digital properties, and communications over the coming months.

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ABOUT FORT MEADE EXECUTIVE AIRPORT

Fort Meade Executive Airport (formerly Tipton Airport) is owned and operated by the Anne Arundel County Tipton Airport Authority, a public corporation created by the Anne Arundel County government. Built by the U.S. Army in the early 1960s and named after Colonel William D. "Shorty" Tipton, a distinguished WWI and WWII Army aviator, the facility operated as Tipton Army Airfield until closure in 1995 under BRAC.

Following environmental remediation, the Authority reopened it as a public-use general aviation airport on November 1, 1999. Located in the Baltimore-Washington corridor, the airport provides general aviation services including aircraft fueling, hangar space, maintenance facilities, and flight training. As a designated reliever facility for BWI Marshall Airport, it plays a critical role in regional aviation infrastructure.

Media Contact: Becky Strohl

becky@alphamoosewriting.com