Tri-Cities Airport to Conduct Annual Live Burn Training October 22–23 

Kylie Toler on October 19, 2026

Tri-Cities Airport will conduct its annual Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) live burn training and recertification on Thursday, October 22, and Friday, October 23. 

The training will include live burn scenarios designed to simulate aircraft fire emergencies. Airport rescue and firefighting personnel and local fire department partners will participate in the exercises, which provide an opportunity to practice coordinated response procedures in a controlled environment. 

Smoke and firefighting activity may be visible in and around the airport during the training. The public should be aware that this is a scheduled exercise and does not indicate an emergency. Airport operations, including commercial flights, will continue as normal throughout the training period. 

The annual exercise is part of the training required to maintain the readiness of airport rescue and firefighting personnel and their ability to respond to aircraft-related incidents. 

Economic Impact Study Shows Tri-Cities Airport Plays Significant Role in Regional Economy

Kylie Toler on August 21, 2026

A recent economic impact study of Tri-Cities Airport (TRI) found that the airport supported approximately 2,100 jobs and $289 million in economic activity in 2024. The study also estimates that activity connected to TRI generated more than $42 million in tax revenue for federal, state, and local governments.

The study was conducted by InterVISTAS Consulting USA LLC on behalf of the Tri-Cities Airport Authority and looked at the many ways the airport contributes to the economy, including its day-to-day operations, construction and improvement projects, and the spending of visitors who fly into the region.

“TRI is an important part of the community we serve, and this study helps show how far that impact reaches,” said Gene Cossey, President & CEO of Tri-Cities Airport. “The benefits of the airport extend well beyond the terminal. They reach local businesses, employees, hotels, restaurants and attractions, and help connect our region with opportunities across the country.”

One of the biggest ways TRI contributes to the local economy is by bringing people into Northeast Tennessee.

The study estimates that about 130,000 visitors arrived in Tennessee through TRI in 2024, spending approximately $96 million during their visits. That spending supports businesses throughout the region, including hotels, restaurants, retail stores, car rental companies, and other tourism-related businesses.

Visitor spending connected to TRI supported an estimated 1,330 jobs and $153 million in economic activity in 2024.

The airport also plays an important role in business travel. Of the visitors who arrived through commercial service, approximately 30% were traveling for business. General aviation visitors were even more likely to be traveling for business, with about 68% traveling for business purposes.

“Air service helps bring people here for business meetings, college visits, race weekends, family trips and vacations,” Cossey said. “Those visitors are spending money in our communities, and that spending supports jobs and businesses throughout the region.”

Tri-Cities Airport helps support regional jobs and investments. The airport itself and the businesses operating at TRI directly supported approximately 390 jobs in 2024. When the broader economic activity created by those jobs and airport operations is included, the total rises to approximately 670 jobs and $121 million in economic activity.

TRI’s continued investment in its facilities also contributes to the economy. The airport invested nearly $11 million in capital projects in 2024, with capital improvements supporting an estimated 90 jobs and more than $15 million in total economic activity.

The study also found that TRI’s economic activity generated an estimated $42.2 million in federal, state, and local tax revenue in 2024. Approximately $18 million of that total went to state and local governments in Tennessee.

Tri-Cities Airport serves as a regional asset. Its core market includes the Tri-Cities of Bristol, Johnson City, and Kingsport, with travelers also coming from communities throughout Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Southeast Kentucky, and Western North Carolina.

The airport handled approximately 447,000 commercial passengers in 2024, a record level of passenger activity for TRI and a significant increase from the years immediately following the COVID-19 pandemic.

“TRI’s success is closely connected to the success of Northeast Tennessee,” Cossey said. “When our region grows, we want the airport to be ready to support that growth. And when we have strong air service, it helps our communities attract visitors, support businesses, and stay connected to the rest of the world.”

The 2024 Economic Impact Study was based on employment data from businesses operating at TRI, surveys of travelers using the airport, general aviation activity, and other aviation and economic data. The study examined the direct activity associated with TRI as well as the additional economic activity created when those dollars are spent throughout the economy.

To view the full study, click here: TRI Economic Impact Study 2024

Tri-Cities Airport Reopens Runway 5/23, Resumes Normal Operations

Kylie Toler on June 11, 2026

Tri-Cities Airport has reopened Runway 5/23 following the completion of repairs and all necessary safety evaluations related to a sinkhole discovered beneath the runway surface earlier this week.

The runway has been returned to service and normal airport operations have resumed.

“We appreciate the hard work of our staff, contractors, and airline partners throughout this process, as well as the patience and understanding shown by our passengers and community,” said Gene Cossey, President and CEO of Tri-Cities Airport. “Thanks to their efforts, we were able to complete repairs and safely return the runway to service.”

Airport operations have returned to normal and airline service has resumed as scheduled. As always, flight schedules are determined by the airlines and can be impacted by many factors. Passengers are encouraged to check directly with their airline for the latest information regarding their specific flight.

Tri-Cities Airport appreciates the patience and understanding of passengers, airline partners, and the community throughout the repair process.

Runway 5/23 Temporarily Closed Until Further Notice

Kylie Toler on June 9, 2026

JUNE 10, 2026

5:15 PM UPDATE: Repair work on Runway 5/23 continued throughout the day Wednesday following the discovery of a sinkhole beneath the runway surface.

Crews are continuing to monitor the curing process while preparing for final inspections and evaluations.

Based on the progress, the airport anticipates reopening Runway 5/23 and resuming normal operations on Thursday, June 11. The reopening timeline remains reliant on the successful completion of all repairs and required evaluations. This timeline is subject to change.

Decisions regarding flight schedules, delays, and cancellations are made by the individual airlines. Passengers should check directly with their airline regarding the status of upcoming flights.

The safety of the traveling public remains the airport’s top priority, and the runway will not return to service until all repairs, inspections, and evaluations have been completed.

9:55 AM UPDATE: Repair work on Runway 5/23 continues following the discovery of a sinkhole beneath the runway surface.

Concrete was poured as part of the repair process, and crews are allowing adequate time for the material to cure before additional work and evaluations can be completed.

Runway 5/23 will remain closed today. Airline flights will be unable to operate as normal until the runway reopens. Decisions regarding delays or cancellations are made by the individual airlines. Passengers are encouraged to check directly with their airline regarding the status of upcoming flights.

Additional updates will be provided as repairs continue and more information becomes available.

JUNE 9, 2026

7:30 PM UPDATE: Runway 5/23 remains closed after the identification of a condition requiring evaluation and repair.

Further investigation revealed an approximately 20-foot by 20-foot by 17-foot sinkhole beneath the runway surface. Repair efforts are currently underway.

Runway 5/23 will remain closed through Wednesday, June 10.

Airline flights will be unable to operate as normal until the runway reopens. Passengers are encouraged to check directly with their airline regarding the status of upcoming flights.

5:15 PM UPDATE: Tri-Cities Airport has temporarily closed Runway 5/23 until further notice following the identification of a condition requiring evaluation and repair.

Airport personnel and are actively assessing the situation and developing a repair plan.

A timeline for reopening has not yet been determined. The runway will remain closed until all necessary repairs have been completed and the runway is cleared to return to service.

Runway 9/27 remains open at this time.

Additional updates will be provided as information becomes available.

Tri-Cities Airport Celebrates Inaugural American Airlines Service to Chicago O’Hare

Kylie Toler on May 29, 2026

Tri-Cities Airport (TRI) celebrated the launch of new American Airlines nonstop service to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) on Friday, May 22, as the inaugural flight officially departed TRI at 7:49 AM.

The inaugural flight was celebrated in the terminal and at the gate, bringing together passengers, airport leadership, the community to recognize the launch of the new route.

American Airlines will operate this flight daily aboard an Embraer 170 aircraft, connecting travelers directly to one of the nation’s largest hub airports and providing expanded access to destinations across the United States and around the world.

“This new Chicago service is an exciting addition for our region and another example of the growing opportunities available at TRI,” said Gene Cossey, President & CEO at Tri-Cities Airport. “With more destinations and connections available from our local airport, we encourage travelers to check TRI first when planning their trips.”

The new route was made possible in part through the Small Community Air Service Development (SCASD) grant program and the support of community and partners throughout our region.

“We are grateful for the collaboration and support from our regional partners who helped make this service possible,” said Cossey. “This inaugural flight reflects years of partnership and commitment to expanding air service opportunities for our region.”

Tri-Cities Airport looks forward to the continued success of the Chicago O’Hare service and the additional connectivity it brings to the Tri-Cities.

A Food-Lover’s Weekend in Chicago

Kat Bundy on March 25, 2026

3-Day Itineraries for Couples and Families Flying from TRI

Chicago is one of America’s most exciting food and cultural destinations. With world-class museums, scenic lakefront parks, and one of the most celebrated restaurant scenes in the United States, the city offers endless opportunities for a memorable weekend getaway. According to Choose Chicago, visitors come from around the world to experience Chicago’s architecture, cultural attractions, and legendary dining.

With nonstop flights from TRI to Chicago O’Hare International Airport, the Windy City is now a perfect long-weekend destination.

With a little help from AI, we’ve created two sample itineraries designed to help travelers experience Chicago: a romantic, food-focused weekend for couples and a fun, activity-packed family adventure.

Romantic Chicago Weekend for Couples

A culture and cuisine getaway

Chicago’s restaurant scene spans everything from Michelin-starred tasting menus to neighborhood institutions serving iconic local dishes.

Day 1: Iconic Chicago & West Loop Dining

Start your weekend at Millennium Park, home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture (“The Bean”). After taking photos and enjoying the gardens, walk south through Grant Park for views of Lake Michigan. Next, explore the Chicago Riverwalk. Couples can grab a drink at a riverside café, take an architectural boat tour, or simply enjoy skyline views.

Dinner in the West Loop–Chicago’s trendiest dining district

  • Upscale: Girl & the Goat – One of Chicago’s most famous restaurants featuring globally inspired small plates.
  • Mid-range: Avec – Mediterranean small plates and wine in a cozy setting.
  • Casual: The Publican – Known for pork dishes, seafood, and craft beer.

Day 1 Total:

  • Activities: $0–$40
  • Dinner & drinks: $100–$150

Day 2: Museums, Architecture, & Michelin Dining

Begin the day at the world-renowned Art Institute of Chicago, one of the largest and most respected art museums in the world. Afterward, visit Navy Pier for lakefront views and a ride on the Centennial Wheel. Later, explore the historic Magnificent Mile for boutiques, cafes, and rooftop bars.

Dinner Options

  • Luxury: Alinea – A three-Michelin-star restaurant known for theatrical tasting menus.
  • Upscale: North Pond – Seasonal cuisine overlooking Lincoln Park.
  • Classic Chicago Steakhouse: Gene & Georgetti – A historic Italian steakhouse operating since 1941.

Day 2 Total:

  • Museum tickets: ~$60
  • Dinner: $120–$300

Day 3: Brunch, Neighborhoods & Lakefront Walks

Start the day exploring Lincoln Park and the free Lincoln Park Zoo. Walk along the Lake Michigan shoreline or rent bikes on the Lakefront Trail.

Brunch Options

  • Upscale Brunch: Boka – Michelin-starred modern American cuisine.
  • Popular Chicago Brunch: The Bongo Room – Famous for creative pancakes and brunch dishes.
  • Casual Café: Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe – A favorite for waffles and fresh pastries.

Day 3 Total:

  • Activities: Free
  • Brunch: $40–$70

Family-Friendly Chicago Weekend

A kid-approved city adventure

Chicago is packed with family attractions, interactive museums, and outdoor spaces perfect for kids.

Day 1: Parks, Fountains, & Pizza

Start at Millennium Park where kids love the interactive Crown Fountain. Then walk through Maggie Daley Park, a nearby space featuring playgrounds, climbing walls, and skating ribbons.

Dinner: Chicago Pizza Night

  • Classic Deep Dish – Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
  • Stuffed Pizza – Giordano’s
  • Family-friendly Italian – Quartino Ristorante

Day 1 Total:

  • Activities: Free
  • Dinner: ~$70

Day 2: Aquarium & Museum Campus

Spend the day exploring Shedd Aquarium, home to thousands of aquatic animals. Next, visit nearby Field Museum, where kids can see Sue the T-Rex skeleton and hands-on exhibits. Finish the afternoon relaxing in Grant Park.

Lunch Options

  • Chicago Classic: Portillo’s – Hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches.
  • Quick & Casual: Shake Shack – Burgers and milkshakes.
  • Local Favorite: Eleven City Diner – Large deli sandwiches and kid-friendly comfort food.

Day 2 Total:

  • Aquarium + museum tickets: ~$140
  • Lunch/snacks: ~$50

Day 3: Navy Pier & Lakefront Adventure

Spend the morning at Navy Pier where families can ride the Centennial Wheel, watch street performers, and explore lakeside parks. Take a walk along the Chicago Riverwalk before heading back to the airport.

Lunch & Treats

  • Kid-favorite burgers: Ed Debevic’s – A fun retro diner experience.
  • Sweet treat: Garrett Popcorn Shops – Famous Chicago caramel and cheese popcorn.

Day 3 Total:

  • Pier attractions: ~$50
  • Lunch & treats: ~$60
Plane Icon

Start Your Chicago Weekend at TRI

From Michelin-starred restaurants and deep-dish pizza to world-class museums and family-friendly parks, Chicago offers a weekend getaway packed with unforgettable experiences.

Book Now

Tri-Cities to Chicago Travel Guide: Discover the Windy City from TRI

Kat Bundy on March 25, 2026

Looking for an exciting city getaway with world-class attractions, incredible food, and unforgettable skyline views? Chicago, Illinois offers travelers an energetic blend of culture, history, and lakeside beauty, and getting there is easy when you begin your journey at Tri-Cities Airport.

With nonstop service to Chicago on both American Airlines and United Airlines beginning summer 2026, travelers can fly from Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia to O’Hare International Airport, one of the world’s busiest and most connected airports. From there, visitors are just minutes from some of America’s most iconic attractions.

Must-See Chicago Attractions

One of the city’s most recognizable landmarks is Millennium Park, home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture (often nicknamed “The Bean”). The park hosts concerts, public art installations, and beautiful green spaces that make it a favorite stop for visitors exploring downtown.

A short walk away sits Navy Pier, a vibrant waterfront destination along Lake Michigan featuring restaurants, boat cruises, family attractions, gardens, and stunning skyline views.

Travelers also love strolling along the scenic Chicago Riverwalk, where cafes, kayak rentals, and outdoor seating provide the perfect way to experience Chicago’s legendary architecture up close.

A City for Food Lovers

Chicago’s dining is as iconic as its skyline and its consistently ranked among the nation’s best cities for food-focused travelers.

Visitors often come to try classic local dishes like deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, and Italian beef sandwiches, but that’s not all the Windy City has to offer. The 2026 Michelin Guide recognizes 21 Chicago restaurants with star honors and 33 more with “Bib Gourmands,” the guide’s recognition for restaurants offering high-quality food for an incredible value.

Food lovers can explore diverse neighborhoods offering unique cultural dining or visit major culinary events such as the Taste of Chicago, one of the largest food festivals in the world.

Start Your Chicago Adventure at TRI

Whether you’re planning a long weekend getaway, a culinary adventure, or a cultural escape, Chicago offers something for every traveler. The city welcomes tens of millions of visitors annually thanks to its renowned museums, theater scene, lakefront parks, and vibrant neighborhoods.

Ready to explore the Windy City?

With new nonstop service on American Airlines and United Airlines, starting your trip at Tri-Cities Airport means less stress, short commute, and a smooth start to your journey.

Plan your trip today:

Your next great adventure might start closer to home than you think. ✈️

TRI Reopens Donation Drive to Support TSA Employees

Kylie Toler on March 23, 2026

The Tri-Cities Airport Authority is relaunching its donation drive to support local Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees affected by the ongoing partial federal government shutdown.

TSA officers at Tri-Cities Airport (TRI) continue to report to work each day to keep passengers safe and travel running smoothly, despite not receiving pay during this time. To support these essential workers, TRI has reestablished a donation collection point at the Airport Services Counter inside the terminal.

Donations will be accepted 24/7 and will directly benefit TSA employees and their families. Items most needed include:

  • Food and gas gift cards ($20 or less)
  • Non-perishable food & snacks
  • Toiletries & personal care items
  • Baby & pet supplies

TSA leadership will distribute donations confidentially to ensure they reach employees most in need. Any remaining items will be donated to local community organizations.

Businesses and members of the community are encouraged to participate in any way they can. Even small donations can make a big difference for TSA employees continuing to serve during this challenging time.

Larger donations such as meals, gift vouchers, or bulk supplies can be coordinated directly through the airport by contacting Gabe Sherrill at gsherrill@flytri.com.

Traveling to Orlando: MCO vs. SFB

Kat Bundy on January 2, 2026

If you’re planning a trip to Orlando, Florida, choosing the right airport matters—especially if you’re trying to save time, money, or both.

Greater Orlando has two commercial airports visitors commonly use: Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). Now, with the addition of Breeze service to MCO beginning in December, TRI offers nonstop service to both Orlando area airports—so, which should you choose?

This clear, practical comparison may help you choose the best option for your trip.

Size & connectivity

Orlando International (MCO) is the region’s primary international gateway. It’s large—offering service by nearly every major U.S. carrier and many international airlines. MCO offers frequent nonstop flights to destinations worldwide.

Orlando Sanford (SFB) is a smaller, secondary airport north of Orlando that hosts many low-cost carriers and seasonal or leisure-focused routes. Its compact size generally means shorter security lines and quicker gate-to-curb times—but fewer choices for nonstop routes, in-terminal shopping, and ground-transport options.

Distance to theme parks & main attractions

If your destination is Walt Disney World®, Universal Orlando®, or the convention district, MCO is likely to get you there faster. Typical driving time from MCO to Disney or Universal is roughly 25–35 minutes depending on traffic. For travelers relying on Uber, Lyft, or a taxi to make it to their final destination, flying into MCO is likely to shave some dollars off of ground transfer costs.

SFB is located about 40–60 miles away from the theme-park corridor. This is likely to mean a 60+ minute drive to your final destination. For travelers who plan to rent a car, or utilize a shuttle service this increased distance shouldn’t be a cause for concern—unless the group is working with a tight timeline.

Quick Decision Guide

Choose Breeze service to MCO if your priority is international connections OR a shorter ground transfer time AND you don’t mind a busier in-airport experience (keep in mind, this means you may need to arrive a bit earlier for your return flight).

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Choose Allegiant service to SFB if your priority is a smaller, less crowded in-airport experience AND you plan to utilize a rental car or shuttle service.

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United Airlines to Launch Nonstop Service from Tri-Cities Airport to Chicago O’Hare

Kylie Toler on December 19, 2025

Tri-Cities Airport (TRI) is pleased to welcome United Airlines to Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia. The airline announced they will begin nonstop service to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) on June 8, 2026. The new route will operate 3x daily, with tickets available for purchase beginning today.

United Airlines is the world’s largest airline, connecting passengers to more than 380 destinations globally and serving nearly 75 destinations that no other U.S. legacy carrier reaches. United’s new service from TRI provides travelers with direct access to its hometown hub at Chicago O’Hare, creating expanded opportunities for both domestic and international travel.

“We are thrilled to welcome United Airlines as a new partner at TRI,” said Gene Cossey, President & CEO of Tri-Cities Airport. “Each addition to our airport brings more growth and opportunity for the region, and this new nonstop service to Chicago O’Hare gives travelers even more options when flying local.”

“Our new daily nonstop flights between the Tri-Cities area and Chicago give the Tri-Cities community greater connectivity to Chicago and United’s leading route network as the world’s largest airline,” said Mark Weithofer, United’s Managing Director of Domestic Network Planning. “These new flights also give our customers from around the globe access to the natural beauty of Northeast Tennessee and all it has to offer.”

Chicago O’Hare International Airport is a major global hub, providing convenient access to a broad network of domestic and international destinations. This new nonstop service enhances connectivity for the region by offering additional routing options for travelers flying out of TRI.

The new service will be operated using the Bombardier CRJ-550 aircraft, designed to provide an enhanced regional flying experience. The aircraft features a dual-class configuration, increased legroom, and expanded overhead bin space, offering added comfort and convenience for passengers.

“This new service is a significant win for our region,” said Trevor Rice, Director of Marketing & Air Service Development at Tri-Cities Airport. “United Airlines entry to TRI increases overall seat capacity in our market, strengthens competition, and gives travelers more connectivity through one of the nation’s largest hub airports. Ultimately, that means more choice, better schedules, and more affordable fares for our passengers — all while reinforcing the importance of flying local.”

The addition of United Airlines reflects continued momentum at Tri-Cities Airport and strong demand for expanded air service in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia.

TRI remains committed to providing convenient, reliable travel options while connecting the region to the world.