Business Spotlight:
Southwest Arkansas Aviation
Hope, AR (M18)

By Natalie McCormick

The Hope, Arkansas Airport started out as a paperwork slip-up in the early 1940’s. The World War II military base had originally been designated for Hope, Arizona. A fortunate mishap in the channels of military communication became Hope, Arkansas’ future.

That future included Southwest Arkansas Aviation and Dean Medlen. Dean moved to Hope, AR in 1977 with his wife and young daughter to take a job as an AP mechanic at the Hope Airport. Seventeen years later, Dean decided to buy out his employer’s. He and his family became Southwest Arkansas Aviation’s owners in 1994.

Dean’s company has expanded from the business of aircraft maintenance to include aircraft painting, detailing, overhauls, 100-hour annuals, aircraft rental and a flight school. Along with the flight school, Southwest Arkansas Aviation employs two flight instructors. They offer private, commercial, and instrument ratings. Multi-engine training maybe added in the near future. Their small fleet of rental aircraft include; a 200-horse power Piper Arrow and 2-Cessna 172. Look for new arrivals in the spring.

Southwest offers a full service AV Gas fill-up. They also offer Jet Fuel. Business Jets and Charter services fly in and out several times a week, not to mention that being the home of Former President Bill Clinton, they’ve seen Air Force One and Marine One on several different occasions. The pictures are displayed in the office for all to see. While you’re there, check out the Dave Clark headsets and other accessories.

Dean’s daughter, Monica, is the office manager. Dean’s wife, Alma, very patiently puts up with his long hours and dedication to his customers. Dean says that his posted hours are 8am-6pm, Monday thru Saturday and 12pm-5pm on Sundays, but he admits it’s more like 7am-9pm. He states that they are on call 24/7 for their customers convience. Their phone numbers are listed on the door if you need help after hours.


Southwest Arkansas Aviation hosts the Hope Pilots Association. They meet the second Saturday of every month. Lunch is at 12pm, the meeting starts at one. A couple of the many projects the Pilots Association is currently undertaking include the recent purchase and current restoration of an old navy trainer. The long process of restoring the ‘old beauty’ to its original glory was a challenge Dean and several of his Association friends couldn’t resist.

The other worthwhile project involves an air show (still in the works) to commemorate the anniversary of 100 years of flight. Tentatively scheduled for June 2003, they have already received the ok for a C-130, A-10, helicopters, and an F-16 fly-by. If you are interested in participating or sponsoring an event, call Dean Medlen at 870-777-3444.

If you want more information about Southwest Arkansas Aviation you can call the same number (870-777-3444) and ask for Dean or Monica. Just drop in to see them at the Hope Airport (M18) 153 Airport Road. You’ll be glad you did.