Poughkeepsie… The Hudson Valley Regional Airport invites schools and youth groups to explore the inner workings of the airport and find out about the potential career opportunities in aviation operations, with behind-the-scenes tours of the airport’s facilities.
Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said, “Opening up the Hudson Valley Regional Airport to our youth groups is an exciting way to spark curiosity and show them the incredible opportunities that exist right here in our community. From learning about aviation technology to exploring future career paths, these tours give young people hands-on experiences that could inspire the next generation of pilots, engineers, and aviation professionals. We’re proud to make this resource available and encourage our local schools and organizations to take advantage of it.”
Hudson Valley Regional Airport Director Jeff Durand said, “Our airport tours will provide participants with a uniquely educational behind-the-scenes experience. We are excited to invite young people from across Dutchess County to come learn more about the wide array of careers available in this growing industry.”
Students get the opportunity to tour the airport’s administration and maintenance facilities, including its emergency response and maintenance equipment, and fire and rescue vehicles; explore the Dutchess Community College Aviation Facility to learn more about the training opportunities offered through the college; experience a real-time demonstration of airport monitoring and traffic control in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Tower (as permitted based on air traffic volume) and view specialized historical aircraft at the Tunison Foundation flying museum.
The Hudson Valley Regional Airport provides an annual economic impact of more than $44 million and sees more than 85,000 annual take-offs and landings. Globally, aviation-related jobs remain in demand, according to a 2025 report by Boeing, with hundreds of thousands of new pilots, maintenance technicians, and cabin crew members needed to fly and maintain the global commercial aviation fleet over the next 20 years.
Tours are available to schools and other youth groups, including civic organizations, scouts, church groups and other youth organizations. Tours can be scheduled weekdays between 9am-3pm from April to October and are by appointment only. Tours are limited to 25 participants and require one adult chaperone per 10 children. Visit dutchessny.gov/airport for more information and request a tour date.
