Craig Field Airport took a huge step forward Tuesday with the official opening and ribbon cutting of the new Airport Terminal Building.

Those in attendance were pleasantly surprised by the impressive structure and its amenities. One guest in particular, former Dallas County Probate Judge and Airport Authority board member Johnny Jones, had an additional surprise waiting. Members of the board voted unanimously to place Jones’ name on the new building to honor his work with the airport authority and the Black Belt.

When informed of the decision, Jones said he was at a rare loss for words.

“I really am running short on words,” he said. “To the board and anyone who was involved in this in any way, I truly appreciate it. I want to thank the airport board for all the hard work they do.”

The building, executive director Menzo Driskell said, offers a more comfortable place for pilots and corporate representatives to land and conduct business.

“The biggest thing is the pilot’s lounge,” he said. “There will be a tv in there, the bathroom in there has a shower. The second thing is the conference room. We do have a lot of corporate people who come in here like Bush Hog and others. They’ll be able to come right in this building and hold meetings. It’s wired for computers, and that will make a big difference.”

The terminal also offers vending machines, coffee and other refreshments.

One of the most important aspects of the new terminal, Driskell said, is the first impression it makes on visitors.

“It just puts a new face on the airport,” he said. “We’ve even got the rocking chairs there so people can sit and read or just relax.”

Bringing the new terminal to life, board chairman James Mitchell said, was a long process that took careful planning and many hours of hard work. Now that the terminal is here, Mitchell said it is a reflection of everyone working together toward a common goal.

“I remember countless meetings where we talked about this facility and the things we could do to improve it,” he said. “It is a very special time and we want to let everyone know how much we truly appreciate their efforts. It’s truly been a collaborative effort.”

Aeronautics Bureau Chief Dr. John C. Eagerton IV, who helped the board throughout the process, said he is especially excited to see the project come to fruition.

“As with any construction job like this, it is always a labor of love,” he said. “We’re pleased with the way this project turned out. It certainly was a privilege to work with Menzo and his staff and the board.”