An effort is underway that would significantly expand operations at a small airport northwest of Atlanta with the goal of bringing in commercial airline service and a cluster of aviation-related businesses.

Propeller Investments on Friday announced that it has entered into an agreement with Paulding County officials to develop Paulding Northwest Atlanta Airport, which is located west of Dallas and about 38 miles from downtown Atlanta. Under the agreement, the airport has been renamed Silver Comet Field.

The company said it is in talks with several commercial carriers and hopes to announce initial passenger service after receiving necessary federal approvals. It's the latest attempt to offer alternative airline service in Atlanta. Public opposition halted a similar effort in Gwinnett County last year.

"Our interest in bringing a second commercial airport to metro Atlanta has not diminished," Propeller Investments CEO Brett Smith said in a statement. "With pro-business county leaders committed to economic development and growth, a new terminal that will be ready for commercial service this year, and 60 acres of adjacent land that can be developed to create jobs for the area, this a great opportunity for Propeller and Paulding County. Furthermore, this partnership brings choice and convenience for metro Atlanta travelers."

The project drew immediate criticism from Delta Air Lines CEO Richard Anderson, according to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

"With the city of Atlanta and Mayor (Kasim) Reed, we will work together to oppose any investment in that facility," Anderson told the newspaper.

Delta has opposed the idea of a second commercial airport in metro Atlanta.

"Hartsfield-Jackson is the best, most important airport in the Southeast, if not in the United States," Anderson said. "And resources should not be dissipated for a facility that will take an enormous amount of cash and ultimately be an economic and community failure."

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Information from: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, http://www.ajc.com