News Release

Cape Hatteras National Seashore Announces Closure of Billy Mitchell Airport for Repaving

Aerial image of the Billy Mitchell Airport.

NPS

News Release Date: June 25, 2026

Contact: Cape Hatteras Public Affairs, 252-475-9032

MANTEO, N.C. — Beginning Sept. 8, Cape Hatteras National Seashore will close the Billy Mitchell Airport (HSE) to accommodate a runway pavement rehabilitation project. The project will provide full resurfacing of paved areas, new reflective paint, and new tie-downs and anchors, improving visitor safety and enhancing the overall visitor experience.

The park expects the project to last 90 days. Updates to the project schedule, including starting and ending dates, will be provided on the Seashore’s website. The North Carolina Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation is contracting and overseeing the paving project on behalf of the Seashore.

The National Park Service’s First Flight Airport (FFA) and Ocracoke Island Airport (W95), and the Dare County Regional Airport (MQI) will be available for daily flights during the runway paving project.