October was the busiest month on record at AVL, topping the previous record set this past July.
Specifically, 102,095 passengers used the airport in October, topping the previous record of 100,998 monthly passengers, and exhibiting an increase of 17.3 percent over the same period last year. Year-to-date, passenger numbers are up 14 percent compared to 2016 – setting the pace for a fourth consecutive record year.
“We are busier than we have ever been,” said Lew Bleiweis, A.A.E., executive director, “and we are working diligently to continue to meet the needs of our growing base of passengers. Our local travelers are finding the flight options they need, right here at their home airport. At the same time, we are welcoming many visitors to our area. The airport’s growth is a reflection of the vibrancy of our great region.”
October’s large increase in passengers was driven by a significant increase in seats offered in our market by Allegiant, American and United Airlines, and by travelers’ willingness to purchase those seats and fly to and from AVL. The planes are full, and the demand for air service is outpacing the supply. Asheville and western North Carolina continue to grow as a popular destination, and the passenger numbers reflect this fact.
“I would like to thank area residents for continuing to use their local airport,” said Bleiweis. “Our mission is to provide an exceptional airport experience, and our airline partners’ continued commitment to our region contributes to the excellent air service available here.”
Asheville Regional Airport is nearing the completion of Project SOAR: Significant Opportunity for Aviation and the Region – an $80 million, four-plus year project resulting in a new (replacement) runway and additional taxiway to serve the region’s aviation needs for decades to come. A new 1,300-space parking garage is now partially open, and will fully open in coming weeks. AVL is served by four airlines: Allegiant, American, Delta and United. For more information, visit flyavl.com.