“This grant is a game-changer for our state and the broader Appalachian region,” said Dr. Daniel Findley, associate director of the Institute for Transportation Research and Education at N.C. State University. “The funding will enable us to conduct crucial research and determine the best strategies to advance air mobility, ensuring North Carolina airports can meet the demands of the future.”
North Carolina was among three states that received the grant. The ARISE grant, funded in part by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will pay for research to identify necessary upgrades at general aviation airports in Appalachian counties. The upgrades will aim to prepare airports in the western part of the state for emerging technologies in the Advanced Air Mobility sector (AAM) and sustainable electric aviation.
North Carolina has 13 general aviation airports in the Appalachian counties, which play a critical role in supporting local economies. However, outdated infrastructure has limited their potential. The research funded by the ARISE grant will identify targeted upgrades, providing a roadmap for implementing these improvements and ensuring the airports are AAM-ready.
During the research, North Carolina State University’s Institute of Transportation Research and Education and Ohio University will assess the infrastructure needs of the region’s airports, including upgrading electric utility capacity and installing charging capabilities required to support AAM aircraft.
“Preparing our airports for AAM is a forward-thinking approach that aligns with our state’s Advanced Transportation Mobility Strategic Plan,” said Becca Gallas, NCDOT’s director of Aviation. “This project exemplifies our commitment to innovation, economic development and sustainable infrastructure. Through this research, we will develop models and strategies that can be applied across the region, ensuring that North Carolina remains at the forefront of aviation innovation.”
The grant will help amplify North Carolina’s airports, which contribute $72 billion to the state’s economy each year and support 330,000 jobs.
Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) has announced the selection of Tina Kinsey, A.A.E. as the organization’s new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO).
Kinsey currently serves as Asheville Regional Airport’s Vice President – Marketing, PR and Air Service and leads a team of nine members. Through her servant leadership approach, strategic mindset, and communication with key stakeholders, Kinsey has brought both operational and administrative successes to AVL during her 14-year career at the airport. Prior to her work with AVL, Kinsey held the positions of Vice President – Business Development and Director of Marketing for Transylvania Regional Hospital (Brevard, NC). During her career in healthcare, she honed critical skills in strategic planning, business development, public relations and customer service which will serve her well in her new role.
Kinsey is an industry professional with 14 years of airport leadership experience and during her career has developed and led a wide variety of initiatives that support the mission and vision of Asheville Regional Airport. She has a Master’s in Speech Communication from Colorado State University as well as a bachelor’s degree in Speech Communication and Business Administration from Berry College, GA. Kinsey is also an accredited member of the American Association of Airports Executives (A.A.E.).
Regarding her new appointment, Kinsey stated, “The last fourteen years at AVL have been the joy of my career, and I am excited to enter this next phase of the journey as we continue to build the airport of our region’s future. Airport management is complex, challenging and rewarding, and I am genuinely looking forward to this leadership opportunity, and to continue to make positive impacts with one of the best professional teams in the industry.”
“I am thrilled to provide pathways for current team members to promote upward,” said Lew Bleiweis, President and CEO of the Greater Asheville Regional Airport Authority. “Tina has proven her abilities during her tenure with the organization, and I look forward to working with Tina in her new role as Chief Administrative Officer”.
The North Carolina General Assembly has enacted House Bill 198, effectively removing the state uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) operator knowledge test and permit. This significant legislative change is largely due to the dedicated efforts of AeroX and its members, who have been instrumental in educating lawmakers about the benefits of drones and fostering a favorable business environment for advanced drone operations in North Carolina.
The North Carolina UAS knowledge test and operator permit was first introduced into law in 2014 in Session Law 2014-100, along with other laws focused on the criminal use of drones. The law requires both state/local government and commercial drone operators to pass the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s (NCDOT) UAS Operator Knowledge Test. Commercial drone operators are also required to obtain the NCDOT UAS permit. This process could be completed online, and the permit would need to be renewed every two years.
Basil Yap, President of AeroX, recalls the early discussions surrounding the law. In 2014, as a state employee with the NCDOT Division of Aviation, Yap attended legislative Transportation Committee meetings. “There were significant concerns about the security and privacy of drone usage and a belief that the FAA was not moving quickly enough to capitalize on business opportunities,” Yap said. “One legislator even suggested that if the FAA wasn’t going to create a drone pilot license, the state would help push them along by passing our own.” In 2014, the FAA did not have a drone operator license in place. It wasn’t until 2016, with the introduction of the Small UAS Rule (Part 107), that the FAA began issuing the Remote Pilot Certificate.
From 2016 to 2020, Yap served as UAS Program Manager at NCDOT, where he helped establish the online knowledge test and permitting process. In addition, he led North Carolina’s participation in the FAA UAS Integration Pilot Program. During this time, drone operators frequently questioned why North Carolina was the only state with a UAS permit, viewing it as a redundant requirement to FAA’s Remote Pilot Certificate.
Since its formation in 2021, AeroX has prioritized regular engagement with the General Assembly to advocate for the drone industry. Last year, AeroX hosted a UAS Legislative Day on the Halifax Mall next to the General Assembly building, allowing legislators to observe drone operations and interact with manufacturers and operators. This spring, AeroX hosted the state legislature’s UAS Caucus at its Winston-Salem office, providing a platform for drone operators to discuss their expanding operations.
House Bill 198, titled DOT Legislative Changes, was first introduced in February of 2023 but was not sent to the Governor’s desk until May of 2024. Due to an issue regarding billboards, right-of-ways, and the cutting of certain trees, Gov. Cooper vetoed the bill. The House and Senate both overrode Gov. Cooper’s veto, thus codifying the bill into law on June 27th, 2024. The new law repeals Article 10 of Chapter 63 of the state’s General Statutes, which includes the requirements for a UAS knowledge test and a NC UAS Permit for commercial drone operators. The repeal will become effective on December 1, 2024.
The terminal expansion, which increased the size of the facility by 20%, was part of a multi-faceted master plan designed to strengthen the airport’s long-term appeal and functionality for airlines and passengers alike. This initial phase includes the addition of one boarding gate, two aircraft passenger boarding bridges, a larger TSA security screening checkpoint area, new restrooms and an area for service animals.
“As we celebrate the completion of this initial phase, we envision more than just a completed project; we see a gateway to new opportunities for our community. This expansion is not merely about adding square footage; it’s about enhancing connectivity, fostering economic growth, and elevating the travel experience for all who pass through our doors,” said Airport Director Andrew Shorter.
“The Airport Authority extends its deepest gratitude to our partners at the local, state, and federal levels who have contributed to the success of this project. From architects to construction crews, from engineers to airport staff, and every other stakeholder involved, your dedication and expertise have brought this vision to fruition. Together, we’ve built more than just structures; we’ve built bridges that connect our community to the world,” said Airport Authority Chairman Tyler Harris.
“As we embark on this new chapter, we are committed to serving our passengers and advancing our shared goals. We hope this expanded terminal will serve as a testament to our collective spirit of innovation and collaboration, ensuring that EWN remains a beacon of progress and prosperity for generations to come,” said Jeff Wood, Executive Director of Craven 100 Alliance.
The remaining portions of the expansion project including covered access from the Short-Term Parking into the terminal, many new energy efficient enhancements throughout are schedule for completion by the end of the year.
The NCDOT Division of Aviation has announced a key strategic hire into the role of Deputy Director of Programs and Planning. Jason Schronce will join the Aviation team after an 18-year career within NCDOT, bringing extensive experience in MPO, RPO and local government engagement to drive positive solutions for stakeholders, as well as experience with transportation planning, engineering, and implementing departmental change.
Jason recently managed the Program Management Office and was the NCDOT Central Region STIP Manager in charge of programming capital projects in Divisions 5, 7, 8 and 9. Jason formally led the Strategic Prioritization Office (SPOT) that oversees the process of applying the Strategic Transportation Investments Law and engaging internal and external stakeholders on the SPOT process. Jason graduated from NC State University with a degree in Civil Engineering. He is a licensed professional engineer with a diverse resume in railroad design, forensic investigations, traffic safety, and is a published landscape photographer.
State, federal and local officials officially announced Tuesday at the North Carolina Global TransPark, a complex will be constructed that the U.S. Navy will use to maintain and repair C-130 and the HH 60W military aircraft.
All photos by Tim Moore, Marketing and Communications Manager, NC Global TransPark Economic Development Region.
Officials with the N.C. Global TransPark, the North Carolina Global TransPark Economic Development Region and the U.S. Navy made Tuesday’s announcement from the Fleet Readiness Center East’s UH1-Huey facility, that has been in operations at the Global TransPark since 2021. Officials said the U.S. Navy’s Fleet Readiness Center East, Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul complex will create 444 new jobs and $400 million in new investment. Temporary Statewide impacts from operational employment could be as high as 871 jobs, $111,800,00 in labor income and total output of $164,800,000. Temporary Statewide impacts from construction could total up to 4,828 jobs and labor income of $262,400,000 and total output of $697,700,000.
Fleet Readiness Center East located on Marine Corps Air station Cherry Point is the largest employer east of Interstate 95 with over 4000 employees. Their mission is to maintain and operate facilities to perform a complete range of depot level rework operations on designated aviation weapon systems, accessories, and equipment; manufacture parts and assemblies as required; provide engineering services in the development of changes of hardware design; furnish technical services on aircraft maintenance and logistic problems; and perform, upon specific request or assignment, other levels of aircraft maintenance.
Construction is scheduled to begin on the 700,000-square-foot complex later this year and be completed by September 2026.
Preston Hunter, Executive Director, North Carolina Global TransPark.
Senator Thom Tillis was present to kick off the event.
“As the most military-friendly state in America, I’m proud that the Global TransPark has become a magnet for aerospace investment that supports the mission of our fighting men and women,” said Governor Roy Cooper. “This FRC East expansion is a monumental investment in Eastern North Carolina that will create more than 400 great jobs to keep our C-130s in top flying condition.”
“This facility represents a significant investment in North Carolina’s future,” said state Transportation Secretary Joey Hopkins. “We’re pleased to support this project because it will mean a great deal to eastern North Carolina and better position the U.S. Navy to execute its mission.”
“I really believe this is transformational for our entire region. I can’t say enough good things about the direction of the TransPark, and the future of partnership with FRC East and what it means not just to them, not just to our military partners, but to everyone in the community. Military construction money is hard to come by, there was an opportunity to bring in the naval and Marine Corps C-130 ′s, bring them back from MOAB, and for FRC East to get that business, but you know they’re huge, those C-130s are just large aircraft, so they needed a great deal of hanger space,” says Jim Perry, Senate Majority Whip.
Tom Hendrickson, chairman of the N.C. Global TransPark Authority’s Board of Directors, left, talks with Mark Pope, President, North Carolina Global TransPark Economic Development Region.
“This massive MRO complex, with over 16 acres under roof and over 440 new jobs, will be transformative for the GTP. The new complex is a testament to the strength of our partnership with Fleet Readiness Center East,” said Tom Hendrickson, Chairman of the N.C. Global TransPark Authority’s Board of Directors. “It is our largest and most significant collaboration to date, offering unparalleled support for military aviation maintenance while also boosting economic prosperity in our community. This project will bring high-quality jobs to the area, stimulate local businesses, and attract new investment to the GTP and the Region.” Hendrickson, added.
“The Golden LEAF Board was pleased to award funds to support construction of a hangar that is an integral part of this project. The expansion of Fleet Readiness Center East at the Global Transpark will create high quality jobs that will have a tremendous impact on the region and on our state,” said Scott T. Hamilton, Golden LEAF President, Chief Executive Officer. “Golden LEAF is proud to support the growth of the economic impact of the Global TransPark and help strengthen the presence of our country’s military in North Carolina.”
“The Lenoir County Board of Commissioners are very excited to be breaking ground on this new complex, and we are honored to welcome FRC East to our community. This complex will have a major economic impact, not only in Lenoir County but across our region, in the form of well-paying jobs and the many other benefits this project will have within our business and military communities. We are thankful to the many people who played a role in making this day happen. It’s truly a great day for the Global Transpark, Lenoir County and all of Eastern North Carolina!” stated Linda Rouse Sutton, Chair-Lenoir County Commissioners
Partnering with the North Carolina Global TransPark and the North Carolina Global TransPark Economic Development Region, NC General Assembly, North Carolina Department of Transportation, North Carolina Community College System, Golden LEAF Foundation, Fleet Readiness Center East, Department of the Navy, State of North Carolina, Lenoir County, and City of Kinston.
Photo above – From left are, Bobby Walston, Eddie Madden, Michael Landguth (President & CEO of Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority and the recipient of the Willard G. Plentl Award) and John Coon. Photo by Daniel Carr / RDU .
By Scotty Malta
Beautiful inside and out is an apt description of the conference venue and accommodations at the Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa in Ashville, North Carolina for the 2024 Annual NCAA Conference. The conference, themed “Challenge Accepted” broke all previous attendance records with 535 attendees, 52 exhibitors and 57 sponsors. The conference committee, led by John Coon, Vice President Operations and Maintenance at the Ashville Regional Airport, NCAA Vice President and incoming President put on another high qualify annual conference with timely, appropriate and interesting topics and speakers.
The opening ceremony included a presentation of colors by the Ashville Fire Department Honor Guard and a beautifully sung National Anthem by Madelyn “Maddie” Knowles (shown at left), a student at Elizabeth City State University and the 2023 NCAA Scholarship recipient.
The new NCAA Business Manager, Emily Winberg, and her personal, yet professional conference staff did an awesome job in seeing to everyone’s needs and keeping the agenda activities on track. Kudos to Emily as this was her first conference as the Business Manager.
The opening motivational session entitled “Afterburner: Flawless Execution” was led by a very dynamic speaker, Christian “Boo” Boucousis, a former Australian fighter pilot and CEO, Afterburner, Inc. He and his team of former pilots “use the proven methodologies of the Fighter Pilot mindset to help organizations achieve their goals in a rapidly changing business environment.” Among the several thoughts he conveyed were: “Plan for perfection, Prepare for the worst” and the “Flawless Execution Cycle: Plan—Brief—Execute—Debrief—Plan, etc.” Boo’s enthusiasm during his presentation was contagious.
The 2024-2025 NCAA Board of Directors was announced during the conference, and they are:
President: John Coon, A.A.E., Asheville Regional Airport
Vice president: Phil Lanier, Johnston Regional Airport
Secretary: Gage King, A.A.E., ACE, NC Global TransPark
Treasurer: Robert (Bob) Heuts, Raleigh Executive Jetport
Immediate Past President: Eddie Madden, MPA, Columbus County Airport
Region One members: Howie Franklin, Cape Fear Regional Airport
Granseur Dick, P.E., A.A.E., Wilmington International Airport
Bill Hopper, Pitt-Greenville Airport
Region Two members: Lorin E. Akins, Piedmont Triad International Airport
Dan Danieley, Burlington-Alamance Regional Airport
At-Large members: Karel Vanderlinden, Fly High Lexington/Davidson County Airport
Scott Hinton, Elizabeth City Regional Airport
NCDOT DOA Director: Becca Gallas, PE, NCDOT, Director, Division of Aviation
What’s an airport conference without a golf tournament? The 2024 tournament was sponsored by AVCON. The first-place team consisted of Mark McQuire, Kraig Kern, Toney Coleman and Deontae Watson. Sierra Heaton and Randy Fender crushed their drives to win the Woman’s and Men’s respectively, Longest Drives. On the other hand, Women’s Closest to the Pin was clinched by Lisa Edwards and Jack Jamison got the Men’s Closest to the Pin.
During the Awards Banquet, the following were recognized:
Two well-deserving individuals were awarded Honorary Memberships: Toney Coleman and Bobby Walston. Their citations read in part:
“Throughout his illustrious career, Toney has exemplified the highest standards of leadership, professionalism, and service within our community. His commitment to the mission and vision of the North Carolina Airports Association has been nothing short of exemplary, leaving a great impact on all who have had the pleasure of working alongside him on the board of directors.” (Photo at right – John Coon (Asheville Regional Airport, NCAA Vice President and Incoming President), Toney Coleman (Retired), Edwin “Eddie” Madden (Columbus County Airport, NCAA President). Photo by Denise Merritt.)
“For decades, Bobby has been a driving force within our aviation community, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation. His visionary leadership and steadfast determination have left an indelible mark on the landscape of North Carolina airports, shaping their trajectory for years to come.” (Photo above from left – John Coon, Bobby Walston (Retired) and Eddie Madden. Photo by Eugene Murray).
Additionally, two student scholarships we awarded.
NCAA Scholarship
The North Carolina Airports Association developed and incorporated The North Carolina Airports Association Educational Foundation, Inc. To be eligible for this scholarship, students must be from North Carolina and enrolled in a post high school curriculum in aviation, airport management or related field.
This year’s NCAA Scholarship Award goes to Carson Jewett. Carson is from Cary, North Carolina. He is a senior in the commercial and corporate aeronautics program at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. He finished his multi-engine rating this past fall. Carson’s goal is to work for Southwest due to their corporate culture and the fact that one of his favorite planes is the 737. In middle school, Carson learned to fly the 737 max on X-plane flight simulator using a one-to-one re-creation with all operations of the plane. Carson’s hobbies include Fishing with his family, golf, and solving Rubik’s cube puzzles which he can actually do within sixty seconds! Carson’s favorite quote is from the television show Last Man Standing, which says “you should worry less about who you might offend, and care more about who you might inspire.” (Shown above – Carson Jewett (center) with Gage King, NC Global TransPark, and NCAA Secretary and Scholarship Chairman, left, and Eddie Madden. Photo by Denise Merritt.)
Bruce Matthews Scholarship
This NCAA Funded Scholarship is dedicated to Mr. Bruce Matthews. Matthews was a tireless supporter of aviation in North Carolina and the first permanent employee of the NCDOT Division of Aviation. Mr. Matthews is credited with leading the development of the state’s public airport system. His vision for assisting smaller airports with facility upgrades in order to accommodate larger aircraft has lifted North Carolina to new heights in aviation success.
This year’s Bruce Matthews Scholarship Award goes to Kazuo Kuchiishi. Kazuo is originally from Brazil and moved to Raleigh, North Carolina, for his Ph.D studies in Civil Engineering at NC State University. He has researched asphalt materials performance including binders, mixtures, and pavements. In the future Kazuo hopes to provide innovative solutions to real-world problems faced by airports when it comes to pavement. His favorite aircraft is the Cessna 172 because it reminds him of when he was a child and would take flights with his family while visiting the mountains. When he is not busy with research, you might find him playing acoustic guitar, watching a movie, or spending time with his family- specifically running around the park after his daughter. Kazuo is also an amateur magician in the art of close-up card tricks. One of his favorite quotes comes from Sir Issac Newton, “If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of Giants.” Kazuo explained that it reminds him to continue to be humble and acknowledge contributions from those who came before him. (Kazuo Kuchiishi, NC State University, is shown above between Gage King, left and Eddie Madden. Photo by Denise Merritt.)
Also, the Willard G. Plentl Airport Professional of the Year Award recipient was announced.
This special award was established to commemorate Will Plentl who dedicated over 50 years of service to both the spirit and the business of Aviation in North Carolina. It’s important to the Association to preserve Will’s memory and to keep this award at its highest level. A special selection committee meets annually to review all nominations and then select one aviation professional who embodies the same characteristics as Will Plentl: Leadership, commitment to Aviation, and community involvement. The selected aviation professional receives a large traveling trophy, and a smaller trophy to keep.
The 2024 Willard G Plentl award recipient is Michael Landguth, President and CEO of Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority. (See photo at top of page). His citation reads in part, “Throughout his tenure, Michael has not only led with distinction but has become a mentor and example to countless airport leaders around the state. Prior to joining RDU, Mr. Landguth served as chief executive officer and president of the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport Authority after also holding the position of director of airport operations within the organization. He holds both bachelor and master’s degrees in Aeronautical Sciences from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University.
One of Mr. Landguth’s notable accomplishments has been his unwavering commitment to securing funding for airport development in North Carolina. Under his visionary leadership, state funding for airport development has skyrocketed from a mere $20 million in 2014 to an astounding $450 million in 2024. This exponential growth in funding underscores his dedication to enhancing the infrastructure and capabilities of our state’s airports, ensuring they remain at the forefront of aviation excellence.
Furthermore, Mr. Landguth has been instrumental in shaping the future trajectory of Raleigh-Durham International Airport through the development of Vision 2040, a comprehensive 25-year master plan for growth. Mr. Landguth’s collaborative spirit and ability to mobilize support have been instrumental in driving these expansions at RDU. Through partnerships with local, state and federal officials, as well as other key stakeholders, Mr. Landguth has successfully garnered the necessary resources and backing to propel RDU’s growth and development initiatives forward. In a significant milestone for RDU, Mr. Landguth broke ground on the new primary runway in October 2023, marking a pivotal moment in the airport’s expansion efforts.
As we reflect on Michael Landguth’s remarkable achievements and leadership, it is evident that his impact extends beyond the confines of RDU.”
Unfortunately, Mr. Landguth was not able to be at the Awards Banquet but provided a recorded, heartfelt acceptance speech.
Lisa Edwards Honored
Lisa Edwards has recently retired, she had been the Business Manager for NCAA for 17 years. Speaking with directors and officers of the association you hear things about Lisa such as: “You can’t say enough about Lisa,” “She’s the glue that holds the board together year after year,” “Everything she touches gets bigger and better year after year,” “Lisa has the association running like a machine,” “She’s tenacious in bringing in sponsors and exhibitors,” “She will be truly missed.”
17 years ago when she started, the conference had @ 100 attendees and 8-10 exhibitors compared to this year’s 535 attendees, 52 exhibitors and 57 sponsors
Lisa has done a great job of helping the new Business Manager, Emily get fully up to speed and she assisted with this final conference for her which is very fitting as it was at the Asheville conference 15 years ago when she started with NCAA. (Photo above – John Coon, David Edwards (President and CEO of the Greenville-Spartanburg Airport District and Lisa’s Husband), Lisa Edwards, Eddie Madden, Bradley Whited (Retired from Fayetteville Regional Airport and Former NCAA Board Member) Photo by Denise Merritt.)
Lisa was also honored by Eddie Madden as he presented her with the NCAA 2024 President’s Award. The full citation, read by President Madden, is presented below:
“It is my pleasure to recognize tonight’s Presidential Award recipient. Having served as the executive director of the NCAA for over 17 years, Lisa Edwards is most deserving of this special recognition. Lisa has tirelessly led this organization, and I mean led, to what is now recognized as one of the country’s most successful and prestigious airport conferences. She has worked to build the association’s capacity, increased our membership to over 400, nearly doubled our net assets, helped us discover new ways to communicate with each other, developed our regions through comradery and training, and been the face of the NCAA for over a decade. Her board trusted her because she earned their respect and admiration.
Simply put, she has been the glue that has held the organization together for over a decade and made it into a highly respected organization. There hasn’t been a task too small or too large for Lisa to manage. For those of us who know her well, she has a certain knack for getting out of us what she needed, and she was highly organized, and it showed in every detail of the airport conference and throughout the organization.
To speak to her character and love of this organization, Lisa agreed to remain with the NCAA on a part time basis over the past year to assist our new Director, Ms. Emily Winberg, to help her learn the tricks of the trade and to prepare her for success. She did so because she took pride in her work, she took pride in the success of the conference, and she wanted to make sure her successor could carry on her legacy.
So, it is my distinct pleasure to award Lisa Edwards with this evening’s Presidential Award. An award that I am grateful to have selected her for and am able to personally present to her tonight.
Please stand and help me thank Lisa Edwards for her many years of service to the NCAA and to the aviation community.”
Several minutes of thunderous applause followed the reading of this citation!
Lisa was honored for her service to NCAA with the President’s Award and for her retirement by the presentation of a plaque displaying Lake Strom Thurmond where she and David are building their retirement home.
The 2024, 44th Annual NCAA Conference was a resounding success and made more poignant as a bookend to Lisa Edwards’ career with NCAA. We look forward to the 2025 NCAA Annual Conference which will take place in Wilmington, NC from April 8-10.
Breeze Airways, the U.S.’ only NLCC, or ‘Nice Low-Cost
Carrier,’ today inaugurates seasonal nonstop service from Coastal Carolina
Regional Airport (EWN) to both Hartford, CT and Orlando, FL.
The new nonstops will both have twice-weekly service, with
introductory fares starting from $49* one way, if purchased by May 30, for
travel between May 26 and June 13, 2024.
From New Bern, NC to:
Hartford, CT (Seasonal service, starting May 24,
Thursdays and Sundays, from $49* one way); and
Orlando, FL (Seasonal service, starting May 24, Thursdays
and Sundays, from $49* one way).
Also, Breeze is commemorating its third anniversary this
week with a special system-wide promotion. Travelers can get 33 percent off**
all roundtrip base fares for travel from May 29 through October 1, 2024, by
applying the code THREE at checkout at www.flybreeze.com or on the Breeze app.
The birthday promotion is available until May 24 (11:59pm
PT) and applies to all routes and cities across Breeze’s nationwide network.
Starting with just 16 cities in May of 2021, today Breeze has expanded to offer
more than 170 nonstop routes from 56 cities across 29 states and has flown more
than five million Guests.
“Craven County prides itself on progress. This is a
momentous triumph and on behalf of the Craven County Board of Commissioners and
the Coastal Carolina Regional Airport Authority, I extend my gratitude and
commendation to all whose efforts culminated in this positive growth,”
expressed Jason Jones, Chairman of the Craven County Board of Commissioners,
and board member of the Coastal Carolina Regional Airport Authority.
“We are excited to be starting our Breeze Airways service
this Memorial Day weekend and we are positive that folks are going to love it”
said Airport Director Andrew Shorter.
“Since we started flying in May 2021, Breeze has continued
to add great destinations to
our rapidly growing footprint,” said Breeze CEO and Founder
David Neeleman. “These new summer additions will surely be welcomed as we
continue to bring efficient, affordable and elevated travel to underserved
markets.”
Recognized by Travel + Leisure readers as one of the Top 5
Best U.S. Airlines for the second consecutive year, Breeze offers Guests both
bundled and a la carte options known as Nice, Nicer and, on flights operated
with the Airbus A220-300, Nicest. The Nicer bundle includes a checked bag and
carry-on as well as a premium economy seat in its “extra legroom” section. The
Nicest bundle includes two checked bags, priority boarding and Breeze
Ascent—the carrier’s inflight experience featuring 2×2 recliner seating and
complimentary snacks and beverages, including alcohol.
Breeze doesn’t charge change or cancellation fees up to 15
minutes prior to departure and offers other benefits such as free family
seating and a la carte pricing. With seamless booking, no change or
cancellation fees, up to 24-months of reusable flight credit and customized
flight features delivered via a sleek and simple app, Breeze makes it easy to
buy and easy to fly. Learn more about Breeze’s flight offerings via our site or
the app.
Ready to travel the globe? Three new international flights
are on deck at Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU). Here’s a primer on
when they start, where they fly and everything else you need to know.
RDU’s newest European nonstop flight will take you to the
continental gateway of Frankfurt beginning June 6. Situated in the heart of the
Frankfurt Rhine-Main metropolitan region, business and leisure travelers alike
will find lots to explore in Frankfurt — and enjoy convenient connections to
Europe and beyond. Lufthansa’s Star Alliance network connects from its base
airport in Frankfurt to 200 destinations across continental Europe, the United
Kingdom, India, the Middle East, Africa and Asia.
The flight will operate five times weekly aboard an Airbus
A330-300.
Next up is Panama City, Panama — a world-class destination
where greenery, indigenous peoples and glamorous city life are waiting for you.
Starting June 21, RDU travelers can fly nonstop to Panama’s capital city via
Copa Airlines. And you’ll be able to connect onward to dozens of international
destinations in Central and South America and the Caribbean as part of Copa’s
Star Alliance network. (Pro tip: check out Copa’s Panama Stopover program,
which enables travelers to enjoy a stopover of up to seven days in Panama City
without paying any additional airfare.)
Nonstop service to Panama City will fly four times weekly to
Tocumen International Airport (PTY) aboard a Boeing 737-800.
Starting July 1, RDU will connect nonstop to Mexico City,
Mexico via Aeromexico. This vibrant city features some of the world’s best
food, architecture, museums and adventures. Flyers can take advantage of
Aeromexico and Delta Air Line’s Joint Cooperation Agreement that offers an
extensive network of flights, with exclusive products and services, as well as
frequent flyer benefits with lounge access.
The Aeromexico service will operate daily aboard an Embraer
E-190.
Leaders from the City of Hickory and Burke County were
joined by state legislative officials at Hickory Regional Airport on Friday,
May 10, to celebrate the grand opening of 12 new T-hangars on the north ramp.
Hickory Mayor Hank Guess, Burke County Commissioner Randy
Burns, and Burke County Commissioner Johnnie Carswell delivered comments on the
importance of the project for the airport and the region.
“The Hickory Regional Airport is a vital asset for Hickory
and Burke County, and a key driver in the economic vitality of our entire
region. Our partnership with Burke County further enhances the airport’s
ability to attract tax base and generate revenue,” stated Mayor Guess.
The City of Hickory and Burke County constructed the new
hangars to create additional leased hangar space to better meet growing demand
at the airport.
Named for their T-shaped structure, these individual hangars
are designed to accommodate small to midsize aircraft that are currently
leasing space in the larger group hangars. Once these planes move from the
group hangars to individual T-hangars, additional aircraft can move to the
Hickory airport off the waiting list.
This new hangar development aligns with the recommendations
of the Hickory Regional Airport Task Force Report to promote and expand the
assets at the airport to increase revenues through expansion of the number of
base aircraft.
Plans are already in the works to build another set of
T-hangars to further this goal.
“We recognize the significant economic development
opportunities that exist both within and around the airport property. We’re
looking forward to leveraging these opportunities, our momentum from recent
projects, and our strong partnerships to better our communities,” added Guess.
“As we work together with our local partners and make investments to further
solidify Hickory Regional Airport as the aviation leader in Western North
Carolina and a destination for aviation enthusiasts, there are no limits to the
new heights we can reach.”
Commissioner Burns echoed those sentiments, saying, “This
project, a testament to the collaborative spirit between Burke County and the
City of Hickory, is not just about infrastructure. It’s about the economic
prosperity and growth that will ripple through our region for years to come. In
2021, there were 55 aircraft at the Hickory Regional Airport. Today, that
number has grown to 76 high-value planes. This exponential increase is not just
a statistic; it’s a reflection of the confidence that businesses and
individuals have in our community.”
During his remarks, Commissioner Carswell noted, “This
momentous occasion is not just about bricks and mortar, but it symbolizes the
strength of our collaboration, the unity of our communities, and the unwavering
commitment to progress and growth. These hangars stand as a beacon of
opportunity, welcoming aviators and enthusiasts alike to our region, fostering
economic vitality, and opening doors to new horizons. The journey to this day
has been marked by dedication, perseverance, and a shared vision for a brighter
future.”
Hickory Regional Airport is situated primarily in Burke
County at 3101 Ninth Ave. Dr. NW in Hickory. For more information about Hickory
Regional Airport, visit www.hickorync.gov/airport.
