Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport

This week's airline schedule review reveals no new changes at CHO for the next six months.  The loss of 2 Cincinnati flights remains in effect for September 2008 as Delta reduces its overall presence there by 27%.  Charlottesville is fortunate to have made it through the current industry crisis with as few changes as have been announced, and it is our desire that load factors remain viable to ward off consideration of any future reductions in service.  From our recent meetings with airlines, we know there is some interest in market expansion and/or equipment upgrades within the next 18-24 months as long as the local use of CHO remains strong.  We plan to be canvassing local corporations this fall seeking data that the airlines have requested-where do you fly, with what frequency, what international destinations, optimal timing of frequent flights utilized by your company, etc.  We will incorporate a request for cargo data as well to provide potential cargo carriers with updated data in anticipation of adding cargo service at some point the future.  

The initial phase of our future Runway 21 Extension Project goes before the Albemarle Planning Commission tomorrow night.  The Virginia Department of Aviation has funds available that will be allocated early this fall, and this project has been bid to compete for these funds. The project includes wetlands mitigation, relocation of a portion of the airport perimeter road, installation of erosion and sediment control measures, and the placement of embankment material that has to be excavated for the roadway relocation.  All of this work will occur on airport property and establishes the "sandbox" that will be filled at some point in the future for the runway extension.  Bids for this phase of work were received last week.  Local contractor Faulconer Construction Company is the apparent low bidder.  Hopefully this will be a small boost for the local economy and beneficial for the progress of this very important airport improvement as well. 

Have a great week,
Barbara

Technorati Profile