Commemorative Air Force Rise Above Exhibit Coming to Tri-Cities

Trevor on August 27, 2024

Tri-Cities Airport is proud to announce the upcoming event “Soar Tri-Cities: LEADing to New Heights,” featuring the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Rise Above Tuskegee Airmen exhibit. This inspiring event, sponsored by Langston Education and Arts Development, Inc. (LEAD), will take place at Tri-City Aviation from September 25-29. The event is free and open to the public. The exhibit will be open from 2 PM to 4 PM on weekdays and from 10 AM to 4 PM on Saturday and 10 AM to 2 P.M. on Sunday.

The CAF Rise Above exhibit is an immersive experience that brings to life the incredible stories of the Tuskegee Airmen and Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP), two groups who broke barriers and overcame obstacles to serve their country during World War II. Visitors will be transported back in time as they step into a fully functional mobile movie theater housed in a climate-controlled 53-foot semi-trailer. The theater features expandable sides, a ramp, and a hydraulic lift, ensuring accessibility for all attendees.

“LEAD is excited to sponsor this historic educational exhibit”, LEAD Chairmen Nate Tadesse said. “LEAD is pleased to be able to give back to the community in this fashion. We are looking forward to CAF sharing the story of both of these trailblazing groups in our area, and we’re encouraging everyone to come out to the exhibit.”

LEAD, an acronym for Langston Education and Arts Development, was founded by alumni of Langston High School in Johnson City, Tennessee, along with dedicated supporters from the community. LEAD’s mission is to preserve the integrity, legacy, and historical value of Langston High School campus while fostering educational and multicultural opportunities that bring diverse groups together in a safe and enriching environment.

The exhibit’s centerpiece is a dynamic 160-degree panoramic screen that creates the sensation of soaring above the clouds in the cockpit of a WWII-era aircraft. The original short films, which are the heart of the exhibit, vividly recount the challenges and triumphs of the Tuskegee Airmen and WASP, offering timeless lessons in perseverance, courage, and determination.

In addition to the powerful film experience, the event will showcase a fully restored WWII-era P-51C Mustang, the signature aircraft of the Tuskegee Airmen. This rare and historic aircraft serves as a tangible reminder of the bravery and skill of these pioneering aviators.
“We are thrilled to partner with LEAD to bring the CAF Rise Above exhibit to the Tri-Cities,” said Trevor Rice, marketing and air service development manager at Tri-Cities Airport. “This event offers a unique opportunity to honor the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen and inspire our community with their story of resilience and courage.”

Adding to the excitement, Northeast State Community College’s Aviation Technology program will be present with their helicopter on display. Attendees will also have the opportunity to try out their flight simulators, providing a hands-on experience that complements the historical significance of the exhibit.

Local schools have planned field trips to the event, allowing students the chance to learn about the Tuskegee Airmen and the vital role they played in history. This educational opportunity aims to inspire the next generation with stories of perseverance, courage, and a passion for aviation.

Tri-Cities Airport (TRI) is a full-service commercial airport serving Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Western North Carolina, and Eastern Kentucky. TRI offers non-stop flights to five hubs (Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas-Fort Worth, Orland Sanford, and St. Pete-Clearwater) on Allegiant, American, and Delta. For more information about Tri-Cities Airport, visit flyTRI.com.

About LEAD:
Langston Education and Arts Development, Inc. (LEAD) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the legacy of Langston High School and fostering educational and multicultural opportunities for the community. LEAD was founded by alumni of Langston High School in Johnson City, Tennessee, along with friends and supporters from the community. For more information about LEAD, please visit leadlhs.org.

About CAF Rise Above:
The CAF RISE ABOVE Squadron is dedicated to educating audiences about the history and legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen and Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) through its three-fold educational outreach program. The program includes a mobile exhibit featuring original films, a restored P-51C Mustang aircraft, and in-person presentations that bring these inspiring stories to life. For more information about the CAF Rise Above exhibit, please visit cafriseabove.org.

Trevor Rice
Tri-Cities Airport Authority
Marketing & Air Service Development Manager
423-325-6030
trice@flyTRI.com

Tri-Cities Airport Authority to Host ‘Elevating TRI’: An Exclusive Event Showcasing Current and Future Aviation Initiatives

Trevor on April 18, 2024

Blountville, Tenn – Tri-Cities Airport Authority is proud to announce, “Elevating TRI,” an exclusive event offering a comprehensive overview of the present and future of Tri-Cities Airport, air service, and Aerospace Park. Scheduled for Wednesday, May 8th, from 2-4 p.m. at Northeast State Community College in Room A202, “Elevating TRI” is set to deliver insights into the strategic initiatives driving the growth and development of our airport and region. 

During this event, attendees will have the opportunity to hear from industry experts on key areas including: 

State of Our Airport: Gain valuable insights into the current state and future trajectory of Tri-Cities Airport. Learn about the developments, achievements, and upcoming projects shaping the airport’s dynamic landscape. 

Air Service Update: Discover the latest strategies and initiatives aimed at enhancing air service at Tri-Cities Airport. Learn about efforts to attract airlines and improve connectivity. 

Aerospace Park: Learn about the visionary project, Aerospace Park, a sprawling 160-acre plot of prime land dedicated to aviation economic development. We’ll share updates on the progress and plans for this regional endeavor. 

“‘Elevating TRI’ serves as s a platform for fostering dialogue and understanding about the future of our airport and its role in advancing economic growth in our region,” said Gene Cossey, President & CEO of Tri-Cities Airport Authority. 

Speakers at the event include: 

Kirk Lovell: Serving as TRI’s air service development consultant, Kirk is Managing Director of Air Service Consulting with Mead & Hunt. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in the aviation industry and will provide invaluable insights into TRI’s air service development strategies and initiatives. 

David Lotterer: Serving as the Aerospace Park consultant with JLL, David plays an important role in shaping the future of our Aerospace Park project. Discover his expertise as he shares updates and plans for this exciting venture. 

Gene Cossey: President & CEO of Tri-Cities Airport Authority, will offer insights into the current state and future vision of Tri-Cities Airport. 

This event promises to be an engaging and enlightening experience, offering attendees a deeper understanding of our commitment to elevating air travel and driving economic growth in our region. 

For more information, please contact Trevor Rice, Marketing and Air Service Development Manager, at trice@triflight.com.

Tri-Cities Airport (TRI) is a full-service commercial airport serving Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Western North Carolina, and Eastern Kentucky. TRI offers non-stop flights to five hubs (Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas-Fort Worth, Orland Sanford, and St. Pete-Clearwater) on Allegiant, American, and Delta. For more information about Tri-Cities Airport, visit flyTRI.com.

Trevor Rice
Tri-Cities Airport Authority
Marketing & Air Service Development Manager
423-325-6030
trice@TRIflight.com

Tri-Cities Airport Announces Launch of New Website

Tri-Cities Airport on January 30, 2024

Blountville, Tenn – Tri-Cities Airport Authority (TCAA) is pleased to announce the official launch of flyTRI.com, a platform designed to deliver an enhanced and customer-centric experience for travelers.

The website focuses on key audience segments, facilitating easier navigation for users and increased efficiency for TCAA staff. The primary objective is to provide a streamlined, user-friendly resource covering all airport needs, from airline information and routes to arrivals and departures.

Developed in collaboration with Creative Energy, a Johnson City-based agency, the website focuses on delivering an enhanced and customer-centric experience for travelers while providing a streamlined approach to efficiently receive and respond to inquiries, ensuring a smooth communication process.

“When analyzing our previous website’s analytics, we discovered that over 70% of the traffic was coming from mobile devices. This revelation prompted us to place a strong emphasis on creating a mobile-first user experience” said Trevor Rice, TCAA marketing and air service development manager. “Our goal is to provide essential information not only for passengers traveling through our airport but also for their loved ones eagerly awaiting their arrival.”

The new website includes a dedicated section for businesses associated with the airport, providing information on current projects, leasing opportunities, operations data, and more. Optimized for any device, the entire site complies with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 federal standards.

With a mobile-first design, the website ensures an interactive and engaging experience for users on all devices, enhancing accessibility and usability. It is compatible with the latest versions of standard internet browsers for PC, Mac, tablet, and mobile devices.

For more information, please contact Trevor Rice, Marketing and Air Service Development Manager, at trice@triflight.com.

Tri-Cities Airport (TRI) is a full-service commercial airport serving Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Western North Carolina, and Eastern Kentucky. TRI offers non-stop flights to five hubs (Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas-Fort Worth, Orland Sanford, and St. Pete-Clearwater) on Allegiant, American, and Delta. For more information about Tri-Cities Airport, visit flyTRI.com.

Trevor Rice
Tri-Cities Airport Authority
Marketing & Air Service Development Manager
423-325-6030
trice@TRIflight.com

Tri-Cities Airport Reports Impressive Surge in Passenger Numbers for 2023

Tri-Cities Airport on January 30, 2024

Blountville, Tenn – Tri-Cities Airport is pleased to announce a significant increase in passenger numbers for the year 2023, reflecting the airport’s continued growth and commitment to providing exceptional air travel services.
In 2023, the total number of passengers reached an impressive 448,514, marking a remarkable 15.83% increase compared to the previous year, where the passenger count stood at 387,227. In a testament to sustained progress, the 2023 figures also show an impressive 41.75% rise over 2021, which had a total of 316,406 passengers. This significant growth underscores Tri-Cities Airport’s pivotal role as a community asset, serving and connecting the communities of Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia.

Gene Cossey, Executive Director of Tri-Cities Airport, expressed enthusiasm about the positive trajectory, stating, “The notable increase in passenger numbers for 2023 is a testament to our team’s dedication and the community’s trust in their airport. We are proud to be a vital gateway for the Tri-Cities region, connecting travelers to destinations worldwide. The continued growth reflects our commitment to providing exceptional service and fostering economic development in the region.”

As Tri-Cities Airport continues to expand its services and connectivity, it emphasizes the importance of local passengers’ support. The growth achieved in 2023 is not only a reflection of the airport’s efforts but also a result of the community’s commitment to utilizing and endorsing its services.

“We encourage our local passengers to recognize the role they play in our success. Their continued support ensures that we can maintain and enhance the services we offer, fostering further growth and providing even more opportunities for our community,” added Kristi Haulsee, Director of Marketing and Air Service Development.

Tri-Cities Airport invites the community and stakeholders to celebrate this achievement, emphasizing the collaborative effort that has contributed to the airport’s success. As the numbers continue to rise, Tri-Cities Airport remains committed to enhancing air service and connectivity, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all passengers.

Tri-Cities Airport (TRI) is a full-service commercial airport serving Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Western North Carolina, and Eastern Kentucky. TRI offers non-stop flights to five hubs (Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas-Fort Worth, Orland Sanford, and St. Pete-Clearwater) on Allegiant, American, and Delta. For more information about Tri-Cities Airport, visit flyTRI.com.

Trevor Rice
Tri-Cities Airport Authority Marketing & Air Service Development Manager
423-325-6030
trice@TRIflight.com

Tri-Cities Airport Master Plan

triflight on November 9, 2023

The Tri-Cities Airport is embarking on an Airport Master Plan (AMP) process which will shape its future for the next two decades, and the local community is invited to participate in this transformative process.

About the Project

The Airport Master Plan project is a 24-month process that will be completed in the Spring of 2025. The Airport Master Plan project is funded through a grant partnership with the FAA and local funding sources. The Authority received an FAA grant for approximately 90 percent of project costs, with the Airport providing funding for the remaining 10 percent.

What is an Airport Master Plan?

An Airport Master Plan is a study to determine the long-term development plans for an airport including the extent, type, and schedule of development required to meet an airport’s forecasted needs. Airport master planning is a strategic process used to establish guidelines for the efficient development of airports that is consistent with local, state, and national goals.

The purpose of an Airport Master Plan is to study the airport and provide a 20-year development program that will create a safe, efficient, economical, and environmentally responsible airport facility. This study will ensure the airport can facilitate the demand for aviation services expected, meet the development goals of TRI, and create additional public value for residents in the Tri-Cities area and the aeronautical community at large. The final product will serve as a critical tool for TRI. It will depict the existing airport facilities and planned development initiatives. This document is vital for coordination between the TRI Authority, the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to ensure capital improvement needs are met.

Get Involved

TRI Authority is dedicated to a transparent, complete, and inclusive planning process. The Airport is excited to engage the community and stakeholders to gather feedback in developing the Airport Master Plan. The Tri-Cities Airport welcomes all interested individuals and stakeholders to join in this significant initiative. The community’s input and involvement are highly encouraged, as we collectively shape the future of our region’s vital transportation hub.

For more information about the Tri-Cities Airport Master Plan and the Public Involvement Program, please contact the AtkinsRéalis Planning Team at aviation.planning@atkinsrealis.com

Airport and Aviation Terminology

Frequently Asked Questions

Tri-Cities Airport Awarded Small Community Air Service Development Program Grant

triflight on September 29, 2023

Blountville, TN – Tri-Cities Airport Authority (TCAA) is one of 20 airports from across the United States to be awarded a Small Community Air Service Development Program (SCASDP) grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation. The $900,000 grant will be used to incentivize an air carrier to provide nonstop service to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD).

The SCASDP grant will allow the TCAA to provide a minimum revenue guarantee (MRG), start-up costs, and marketing support to an airline partner for new air service to the Chicago hub.

“We are excited to be awarded the SCASDP grant and the opportunity it provides for our region,” said Gene Cossey, Executive Director of Tri-Cities Airport. “The grant can help us recruit an airline to provide this important connection for our community, and ultimately help stimulate additional economic growth for our region. It is important to note the grant is not a guarantee of service to Chicago. However, it is a new tool in our toolbox as we continue to persistently market the Chicago opportunity to carriers.”

The grant application process was highly competitive, with up to $15 million in funding available for no more than 40 communities. In determining grant recipients, the Department of Transportation was directed to give priority to communities with (1) airfares higher than the national average, (2) higher levels of cash contributions outside of airport sources, (3) establishment of a public-private partnership, (4) the assistance will be used to restore lost air service, (5) the assistance will provide material benefit to a broad segment of the traveling public, and (6) assistance will be used in a timely manner. TRI met all these requirements.

“I am thrilled to have played a role in supporting the possible establishment of a direct flight between the Tri-Cities Airport and Chicago through the Small Community Air Service Development Program grant,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. “Improving the lives of residents in East Tennessee remains my top priority as a legislator. A nonstop flight would enhance convenience for travelers, bolster tourism, and strengthen our business community.”

“The Airport Authority is committed to enhancing air service for our community and the SCASDP grant award is a significant step toward achieving that goal,” said Bill Sorah, TCAA Board Chair. “We are grateful for the tremendous support received from the region both in committing matching funds and providing letters of support for the grant application.” According to the order soliciting SCADP grant applications, “applications that provide multiple levels of contributions (State, local, cash, and in-kind contributions) will be viewed more favorably”. The region’s 48% in matching funds, in-kind support and airport funds along with the community letters of support were an important component in TCAA’s award of the SCASDP grant. The TCAA is grateful for the support of the following organizations:

About SCASDP
The SCASDP grant is designed to provide financial assistance to small communities to help them enhance their air service. The U.S. Department of Transportation provides this assistance in the form of grants that are disbursed on a reimbursable basis. In past years, the Department’s individual grant sizes have ranged from $20,000 to nearly $1.6 million.

About TRI
Tri-Cities Airport (TRI) is a full-service commercial airport serving Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Western North Carolina, and Eastern Kentucky. TRI offers non-stop flights to five hubs (Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas-Fort Worth, Orland Sanford, and St. Pete-Clearwater) on Allegiant, American, and Delta. For more information about Tri-Cities Airport, visit triflight.com.

TCAA Accounting Department Receives GFOA Award for 24th Consecutive Year

triflight on August 25, 2023

Blountville, Tenn – The Tri-Cities Airport Authority (TCAA) is thrilled to announce its remarkable achievement of being awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for the 24th consecutive year. This prestigious recognition underscores TCAA’s unwavering dedication to transparency and exceptional financial management.

The Certificate of Achievement is awarded to organizations that consistently present an Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) that is easily comprehensible and well- structured. This award signifies the highest level of accomplishment in governmental accounting and financial reporting, exemplifying TCAA’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards in this domain.
The award-winning ACFR covers the fiscal year ending on June 30, 2022, providing a comprehensive overview of TCAA’s financial performance and stewardship of resources

Acknowledging excellence not only at the organizational level but also within its team, TCAA proudly congratulates Rene Weber, Director of Finance at Tri-Cities Airport Authority, for receiving the Financial Reporting Achievement award. “We are tremendously honored to receive the GFOA award for the 24th consecutive year,” stated Gene Cossey, Executive Director of Tri-Cities Airport Authority. “This recognition is a testament to the exceptional commitment and expertise demonstrated by our team as we strive for financial transparency and accountability.”

The Annual Comprehensive Financial Report underwent rigorous evaluation by an impartial panel to ensure alignment with the program’s stringent criteria. The report effectively communicates TCAA’s financial narrative, further underscoring the organization’s dedication to clarity and openness.

For more information, contact Trevor Rice, Marketing and Air Service Development Manager, at trice@TRIflight.com.

Tri-Cities Airport (TRI) is a full-service commercial airport serving Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Western North Carolina, and Eastern Kentucky. TRI offers non-stop flights to five hubs (Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas-Fort Worth, Orland Sanford, and St. Pete-Clearwater) on Allegiant, American, and Delta. For more information about Tri-Cities Airport, visit triflight.com.