EPHRATA – The Port of Ephrata has officially launched a rental car service in a move that aims to enhance airport services and stimulate local economic growth. Executive Director Dave Lanman announced that the port has partnered with Hertz to provide rental cars on-site, a service that is expected to attract more traffic to the airport and benefit the surrounding community. 

“Folks need to recognize that we are not just a sleepy country airport that occasionally flies gliders; we are in a growth mode. We are up and coming, and we need the support of the community,” Lanman said.  

His remarks came shortly after the rental service commenced Sept. 15. In just a week and a half, the port has already rented out seven vehicles, all to passengers of corporate aircraft. 

The decision to introduce rental cars comes in response to demand from travelers and local businesses, Lanman said. Previously, travelers arriving at the airport had limited options for transportation, forcing them to rent vehicles long distances away in places like Moses Lake or Wenatchee.  

“Now they have one right here in Ephrata,” Lanman said.  

While the Hertz rental operation is still finalizing its online booking system, the port has ensured that customers can either reserve cars through the port office or directly with regional Hertz representatives via phone.  

“It’s been a year in the making, and we were determined to bring this service to Ephrata,” Lanman said. “We could no longer accept that lack of transportation was hampering our ability to attract corporate aircraft and their passengers.” 

Part of Lanman’s approach has involved working directly with corporate jet management companies to showcase Ephrata as a viable option for air travel in the region. Notably, he has received frequent requests from these companies for transportation services.  

“I was often getting calls from management companies looking for available transportation. This new rental car service addresses that barrier head-on,” he said. 

The Port of Ephrata has also expanded its facilities to include Jet A fuel, providing additional resources that appeal to aviation customers. With the new rental car service, Lanman is optimistic about the potential for increased traffic through the airport.  

“One or two additional aircraft each month could translate into thousands of dollars in revenue that would otherwise not come to us,” he said. 

Officials are also looking toward the future, with plans to facilitate even more services that meet the needs of both aviation clients and local community members.  

“The more services we can offer, the more likely we are to attract traffic,” Lanman said. 

Lanman said he believes that the growth of the Port of Ephrata can catalyze economic development for the surrounding area.  

“I want people to be emotionally involved and supportive of our growth. What happens at the airport directly impacts the community,” he said. 

In line with this vision, the Port of Ephrata is in talks with a business interested in leasing approximately 20 acres of land for an AI company. Lanman explained that the presence of high-tech industries could kick-start further business growth in the region. 

“We are already talking to a business that is looking to come in, and they’re pretty committed. This can be the domino that initiates a trend of growth for Ephrata,” he said. 

With the launch of the new rental car service, the Port of Ephrata is taking steps in redefining its role within the community and positioning itself as a focal point for regional economic growth, according to Lanman.

“We’re not just an airport; we’re a critical component of Ephrata's future, and I’m excited about what’s to come,” he said.