Roberta Aguirre
The Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) is a small-hub primary commercial service facility located near Interstate 26 and the town of Fletcher, North Carolina, about 9 miles (14 km) south of downtown Asheville. The airport is easily accessible from downtown Asheville, which is just a 20-minute drive away, and it is also within a day's drive of 50% of the US population. In 2023, the airport served over 2.2 million passengers, marking a new record. With ongoing expansion and renovation projects, the airport is consistently ranked as one of the fastest-growing airports in the country.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Airport Type | Small-hub primary commercial service facility |
| Location | 9 miles (14 km) south of downtown Asheville |
| Area | 900 acres (360 ha) |
| Number of Runways | 1 |
| Length of Runway | 8,002 ft × 150 ft (2,439 m × 46 m) |
| Number of Gates | 7 (expanding to 12) |
| Number of Stories | 1 (expanding to 2) |
| Number of Airlines | 6 |
| Number of Nonstop Destinations | 27 |
| Number of Passengers | 2,246,411 (2023) |
| Year Opened | 1961 |
| Owner | Greater Asheville Regional Airport Authority |
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What You'll Learn
The airport is undergoing expansion and reconstruction
The Asheville Regional Airport is undergoing a major expansion and reconstruction project, called AVL Forward, to meet the demand prompted by unprecedented growth. The airport served over 1.8 million passengers in 2022, and this number grew to 2.2 million in 2023, doubling the number of total passengers since 2018.
The $400 million project includes the construction of a new terminal, a new air traffic control tower, and more parking spaces. The new terminal, designed by Gresham Smith, will be 150% larger than the current airport, spanning 280,000 square feet, with 12 gates instead of the current seven, and ample room for future expansion. The terminal will also feature a grand lobby, modern ticketing and baggage claim areas, a concessions plaza, and thoughtfully designed gate areas to enhance the overall airport experience. The new design concept is inspired by the natural beauty of the western North Carolina mountains.
The construction of the new terminal will be managed by Hensel Phelps, a company known for its commitment to excellence and innovation. The project will be further enriched by the expertise of Parsons, a firm specialising in construction management services. The new terminal is expected to be completed by 2026.
The new air traffic control tower, located on the west side of the airport, is a $55 million project, with $44 million allocated for construction and $11 million for equipment and technology. The tower, standing at 127 feet, will be ready by 2025. The tower is crucial for the infrastructure growth needed to meet the swiftly growing air service needs in western North Carolina.
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It is one of the fastest-growing airports in the country
The Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) is indeed one of the fastest-growing airports in the country. In 2023, the airport served over 2.2 million passengers, surpassing the historic two-million mark for the first time. This represented a remarkable 22.2% increase in passenger traffic compared to the previous year.
AVL's rapid growth can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, its convenient location near Interstate 26 and Interstate 40 places it within a day's drive of 50% of the United States' population. This strategic position makes it an attractive option for travellers not just from North Carolina but also from the surrounding regions.
Secondly, AVL offers non-stop flights to 27 destinations, many of which are international hubs, making it one of the best-connected regional airports in the country. The airport is served by six airlines: Allegiant, American, Delta, JetBlue, Sun Country, and United. This range of options provides passengers with easy connections to and from hundreds of cities worldwide.
To accommodate this significant growth and enhance passenger comfort, the airport has embarked on a major infrastructure expansion project. The project includes a 150% increase in terminal size, expanding from seven gates to twelve, with ample room for future expansion. The new design will feature a grand lobby, improved ticketing and baggage claim areas, an inviting concessions plaza, and thoughtfully designed gate areas.
The expansion project also includes the construction of a new 127-foot air traffic control tower, scheduled for completion in 2025. The total estimated cost of the project is $400 million, with $175 million in bonds approved by the state treasurer.
Despite the growing pains associated with increased passenger volume, such as equipment issues and personnel shortages, the Asheville Regional Airport is taking proactive steps to address these challenges. The airport's efficient management of its growth has contributed to its reputation as one of the country's fastest-growing and most dynamic aviation hubs.
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The airport has a history of security issues
The Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) is a small airport that has experienced a history of security issues. On October 6, 2017, a major security threat occurred when a terrorist, Michael Christopher Estes, deposited a bag containing an improvised explosive device near the terminal entrance. Fortunately, the bomb was detected and defused by bomb-sniffing dogs, and Estes was arrested and charged. This incident highlighted the need for enhanced security measures at the airport.
Asheville Regional Airport has also faced challenges in keeping up with increasing passenger traffic and demand. The airport has undergone multiple expansion projects to address capacity issues, with a focus on improving security wait times and overall passenger experience. The airport's website recommends passengers arrive 2.5 to 3 hours early due to potential security and construction-related delays.
In addition to the 2017 terrorist incident, the airport has experienced other security-related events. For example, in October 2011, President Barack Obama landed at the airport to kick off his North Carolina and Virginia bus tour. The presence of the President would have undoubtedly heightened security protocols and presented a unique set of challenges for the airport's security team.
Another incident occurred in December 2019, when a small plane crashed in the Western North Carolina Agricultural Center parking lot shortly after takeoff. While not a direct security issue, this incident would have prompted a review of emergency response procedures and security protocols related to aircraft incidents.
Asheville Regional Airport takes security seriously, with Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents conducting screening of passengers and luggage. The airport also employs expert aircraft rescue firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical personnel who are on-hand 24/7 to ensure the safety of passengers. The airport conducts annual training and disaster drills to maintain the readiness of its security and emergency response teams.
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It is conveniently located at the crossroads of two major interstates
The Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) is conveniently located at the crossroads of two major interstates, I-26 and I-40, just 9 miles (14 km) south of downtown Asheville, North Carolina. This strategic location makes it easily accessible to a significant portion of the population, as it is within a day's drive of 50% of the United States' population. The airport is currently undergoing a major expansion and renovation project, with plans to increase the terminal's size by 150% and add more gates to accommodate a growing number of passengers.
Asheville Regional Airport is a small-hub primary commercial service facility, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems for 2019-2023. Despite its small-hub classification, the airport has seen impressive growth in recent years, serving over 2.2 million passengers in 2023, a record for the airport. The airport offers nonstop flights to 27 destinations, many of which are international hubs, making it one of the best-connected regional airports in the country.
The convenient location of the airport at the intersection of two major interstates has contributed to its popularity and accessibility. It is also served by six airlines: Allegiant, American, Delta, JetBlue, Sun Country, and United. The airport's proximity to Asheville's downtown area, just a 20-minute drive away, further enhances its convenience for travellers.
In addition to its role as a commercial airport, Asheville Regional Airport has also served as a military hub, accommodating various aircraft, including presidential visits by Barack Obama. The airport has also faced challenges, such as the impact of Hurricane Helene in 2024, which caused flooding in the region and affected commercial flight operations. However, the airport remained open and operational during this time, demonstrating its resilience and ability to adapt to adverse conditions.
Asheville Regional Airport's location at the crossroads of two major interstates has undoubtedly contributed to its success and growth as a regional aviation hub. With its ongoing expansion and improvement projects, the airport is well-positioned to continue serving an increasing number of passengers and strengthening its connectivity to the rest of the world.
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The airport is open and operational after Hurricane Helene
The Asheville Regional Airport is a small-hub primary commercial service facility. The airport is open and operational after Hurricane Helene, with commercial flights arriving and departing as scheduled. However, passengers are advised to check their flight status before arriving at the airport, as some airlines may have reduced flight schedules.
The airport is easily accessible by road, with most roads around the airport clear of debris and obstructions. Ground transportation is available, but there may be a reduced number of drivers operating. Rental car companies are operating daily, with some requiring pre-booking and others offering walk-in rentals.
The airport itself did not suffer any significant damage from Hurricane Helene, and essential services such as internet and power are fully functional. The airport has also served as a military hub for relief efforts, with supplies being unloaded and distributed throughout the region.
Asheville and the surrounding areas were severely impacted by the hurricane, with record-breaking rainfall and flooding causing major destruction to infrastructure and residential areas. Many roads were closed, and over 200 people had to be rescued from the floods. The recovery process is ongoing, and visitors are welcome to return to the area and be a part of the comeback.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Asheville Regional Airport is considered a small-hub primary commercial service facility by the FAA. However, it is one of the fastest-growing airports in the country, serving over 2 million passengers in 2023.
Wait times at Asheville Airport can vary, but it is generally recommended to arrive 2-3 hours early for domestic flights to account for potential delays and long TSA lines.
Six airlines serve the Asheville Regional Airport (AVL): Allegiant, American, Delta, JetBlue, Sun Country, and United.
Asheville Airport has hosted several notable visitors, including President Barack Obama and the Concorde supersonic transport (SST) during a promotional tour in 1987.
