Moving People - Moving Goods

Erie International Airport is the region's leading facility and is ranked the fastest growing airport in Pennsylvania and the third fastest growing airport in the United States. In 2005, Erie International Airport provided passenger service to more than 375,000 on four airlines to and from more than 900 destinations around the world.

The impact of that service to Erie's Regional Economy was more than $241 Million!

With the proposed extension of Runway 24 by 1,920 feet, Erie International Airport, Tom Ridge Field will enter a new generation, removing an FAA safety waiver and paving the way for expanded jet service.

To date, Runway 24 which is 6,500 feet limits our ability to handle cargo aircraft; presently we are only able to capture 2.5% - 5% of the potential cargo our region has to offer. The runway extension will allow Erie to actively enter into the air cargo and logistics market, via a center of excellence to be created by the construction of an International Trade Center. As proposed, the Runway extension will necessitate the realignment of Powell Avenue to the east and the modification of the Millcreek Golf Course. This realignment and modification is clearly identified as Alternative #3 in the Master Plan.

Another essential aspect of the Runway Improvement Program is that it will allow for safety improvements such as on and off Airport obstructions [noted in the Master Plan] and mitigate environmental concerns relative to storm water drainage while complying with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.

It is important to understand that with the $56 million project cost directly associated with the runway extension there is $50 million in roadway improvements around the airport, to include the expansion of Asbury Road and the revitalization of the four corners connecting Asbury Road and Peninsula Drive between 12th and 26th Streets.