Regional Airports Survive
Economic Turbulence

By Zanetta Doyle, Digest Editor

Regional airlines operate one-third of the U.S. commercial airline fleet, and are the fastest growing segment of commercial aviation, with one out of every eight domestic airline passengers flying on a regional airline, according to the Regional Airline Association (RAA). The Regional Air Service Initiative (RASI), a consortium of regional aircraft manufacturers and suppliers, reports that regional airlines have played a critical role in maintaining air service in many American communities since September 11. An analysis of nearly 1,500 individual U.S. routes revealed that after September 2001, regional carriers were at the forefront of air service changes and modifying schedules.

However, there have been reports of a minimal decline in ridership on regional airlines. RAA reported that in 2001, 82.8 million passengers boarded airplanes operated by regional airlines, 2.1 percent less than in 2000. The RAA also noted that the number of cities in North America receiving regional airline service decreased slightly to 726 in 2001. In total, regional carriers serve 95 percent of all of the airports receiving commercial airline service in North America. Industry departures decreased by 5.8 percent in 2001, to 4.20 million.

With the slightly declining numbers, there remains optimism, especially due to the economic benefits that regional airports bring to small metropolitan and rural communities. These benefits include job creation and opportunity for local businesses, attracting new businesses and tourism.

Georgia RDC Partners with Local Airport

The Central Savannah River Area Regional Development Center (RDC), an EDA funded district located in Augusta, Georgia, works with their Aviation Commission, which oversees the Augusta Regional Airport. The RDC offers various services to the Commission, including grant writing and administration, information and research on state tax incentives, mapping services, and other research support. The RDC also assists in identifying other opportunities to develop the airport. “If the commission has a need or an idea, they can come to us for support,” said Greg Halverson, Economic Development Director for the Central Savannah River Area RDC.

There is currently $90 million of development in process for the airport, which will include a new runway and terminal. Halverson added that the regional airport has seen a decline in ridership, particularly since September 11. As a result of 9/11, some services were lost, but these airports are now recovering. “There are some major marketing campaigns in the works to promote regional airports,” Halverson added. In addition, the new federal requirements for security make many regional airports a preferred starting point for passengers.

Recognizing the economic opportunities that exist, the RDC is also working with local airport and technical college officials and officials from Garrett Aviation, a company that specializes in aircraft maintenance and repair for corporate jets. Garrett owns three plants, one of which is located in Augusta. This company brings 200 jobs to the area and has a $7.8 million payroll. The Central Savannah River Area RDC hopes to partner with Garrett to encourage them to outsource to smaller, local businesses that would provide services that Garrett currently does not. “We are trying to create a regional economy,” Halverson said.

Andy Crosson, Executive Director of the Central Savannah RDC commented on the critical role of expanding Augusta’s regional airport, and the opportunities that exist with Garrett Aviation. “In real estate, the most important element is location, location, location, but in economic development, its transportation, transportation, transportation.” Crosson added, “If a company can't get the supplies it needs to build its products, then it can’t operate effectively in that community.” Recognition of this fact plays a major role in the efforts of the RDC and its member jurisdictions as they strive to enhance the Augusta area’s access to four-lane highway corridors, area ports, and quality airport facilities.

For More Information Contact: Greg Halverson or Andy Crosson of the Central Savannah River Area RDC at 706/210-2000 or email acrosson@csrardc.org; or visit augustaregionalairport.com; the Department of Transportation at www.dot.gov; or the Regional Airline Association at www.raa.org.

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