AVL served more than 1 million annual passengers for the first time in its history in 2018

For the first time in its 58-year history, Asheville Regional Airport served more than 1 million annual passengers. In 2018, 1,134,568 passengers utilized a commercial flight at AVL, on one of these six airlines: Allegiant, American, Delta, Elite, Spirit and United.

Passenger numbers grew by 18.6% compared to 2017, making 2018 the fifth consecutive record year of growth for the airport.

Additionally, AVL is the fourth largest commercial service airport in North Carolina, and is one of the fastest-growing small hub airports in the country. A recent economic impact study showed that the airport contributes nearly $1.5 billion annually to the local economy.

"One million is a milestone," said Lew Bleiweis, A.A.E., Greater Asheville Regional Airport Authority executive director. "The unprecedented growth we have experienced in the past few years reflects the vitality of our region as a whole. We thank our airline partners, our dedicated airport staff and tenant organizations, and we especially thank our local community for choosing to 'fly local.'"

To celebrate the significance of the growth and "one million" milestone, the airport is kicking off 2019 in a big way, starting with a 58th birthday party with a regional Chamber of Commerce networking event, followed by a week of surprises in the terminal.

"We want to surprise and appreciate travelers, and thank them for choosing AVL," said Bleiweis. "They are all truly 'One in a Million,' and that's our theme this week. We have some amazing surprises in store - and this week will only be the beginning. To celebrate our 58th year - and the amazing one million milestone - we plan to provide at least 58 random acts of kindness for our travelers in 2019. This airport continues to grow with and for our region, and it's because our local travelers embrace Asheville Regional Airport. It is our pleasure to thank them all."

OTHER KEY HIGHLIGHTS

• Significant growth in nonstop destinations - new or expanded routes announced in 2018:
  • Denver (Allegiant)
  • Dallas/Ft. Worth (American)
  • Ft. Lauderdale (Spirit)
  • New York (American - starts May 2019)
  • Orlando (Spirit)
  • Philadelphia (American - starts May 2019)
  • Sarasota (Allegiant - starts February 2019)
  • Tampa (Spirit)
  • Washington, D.C. (United - starts February 2019)
• Year-round daily service to five international hubs
• Served by six airlines: Allegiant, American, Delta, Elite, Spirit & United
• AVL contributes nearly $1.5 billion in economic impact annually

Asheville Regional Airport is served by six airlines:  Allegiant, American, Delta, Elite, Spirit and United, who offer nonstop and frequent connections to and through 18 destinations, including five international hubs. For more information, visit flyavl.com.

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