Tri-Cities Airport Ice Rink at Bristol Motor Speedway Opens Today, Benefiting Speedway Children’s Charities 

Kylie Toler on November 14, 2024

The holiday season officially begins today with the opening of the Tri-Cities Airport Ice Rink at Bristol Motor Speedway. Open through January 12, this popular seasonal attraction offers families and friends the chance to enjoy festive ice skating while supporting a meaningful cause.

As part of the Food City Speedway in Lights powered by TVA, the Tri-Cities Airport Ice Rink is the perfect complement to the holiday light display. Together, they offer an evening of festive fun – skating on the rink and enjoying the spectacular lights – while supporting Speedway Children’s Charities and their mission to improve the lives of children across the region.

Bristol Speedway Children’s Charities has served the community for nearly 30 years, providing resources and support for children’s health, education, and well-being. Funds raised by events like the Tri-Cities Airport Ice Rink and the Food City Speedway in Lights help this charity make a lasting impact in our region, ensuring local children receive the care and opportunities they need.

“We’re proud to partner with Bristol Motor Speedway to bring this beloved holiday event to life,” said Kylie Toler, Marketing and Communications Specialist at Tri-Cities Airport Authority. “The Tri-Cities Airport Ice Rink represents more than just seasonal fun; it’s a way for our community to unite and support local children. Each skate helps build a brighter future for kids in our region.”

The Tri-Cities Airport Ice Rink is open daily through January 12, 2025, though it will be closed on Mondays from November 18 to December 16. Ticket prices are $12 per skater Monday through Thursday and $15 per skater Friday through Sunday. Operating hours vary by day, so guests are encouraged to review the schedule in advance by visiting the Bristol Motor Speedway website.

Tri-Cities Airport takes pride in supporting the Bristol Speedway Children’s Charities and the Tri-Cities region. TRI welcomes skaters of all ages to this year’s rink and invites everyone to join in this special holiday experience.

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.

Kylie Toler
Tri-Cities Airport Authority
Marketing & Communications Specialist
423-325-6032
ktoler@flyTRI.com

Tri-Cities Airport Hosts Special Send-Off for Local Veterans Participating in Honor Flight Tour

Kylie Toler on October 14, 2024

Tri-Cities Airport, in collaboration with Snap-on Tools Elizabethton, hosted a special send-off for five local veterans participating in the landmark 20th Snap-on Honor Flight Tour. The send-off took place at 9:00 AM on Friday, October 11, at the airport.

This heartwarming event at Tri-Cities Airport was full of excitement as both airport and Snap-on employees gathered to give the veterans a heartfelt send-off. With signs, flags, and plenty of smiles, they were celebrated from the moment they arrived to the moment their flight departed. Starting with a big welcome in the terminal, the honor continued throughout their journey, through security and all the way to the concourse, making sure they felt the appreciation every step of the way.

“We were honored to host this special send-off for our local veterans,” said Gene Cossey, President and CEO of Tri-Cities Airport. “It was a privilege to come together as a community to celebrate and support those who have served our country.”

After the heartfelt send-off at Tri-Cities Airport, the group went on their way to the nation’s capital to participate in the memorable events of the 20th Snap-on Honor Flight Tour.

Since 2013, Snap-on has teamed up with the Honor Flight Network to give veterans an unforgettable experience of visiting the memorials dedicated to their service in Washington, D.C. This program brings veterans and their companions together, allowing them to share their stories, reflect on their service, and honor their fellow comrades. Each veteran is celebrated during a special dinner, where their service, military roles, and conflicts are highlighted, and they receive heartfelt appreciation from everyone they meet throughout their journey.

For the 20th Honor Flight, five local veterans nominated by Snap-on associates and retirees joined 20 others in the nation’s capital. The local veterans honored on this special tour include:

  • Bobby Arnett of Elizabethton, a Marine Corps veteran who served in Vietnam and the National Guard, nominated by his wife Rose Arnett, a Snap-on retiree.
  • Wade Campbell of Mountain City, an Army veteran who trained in a military motor pool during Vietnam, nominated by his son Michael Campbell, a 20-year Snap-on employee.
  • Bruce Price of Mountain City, an Army helicopter crew chief and door gunner during Vietnam, nominated by his son-in-law Michael Campbell.
  • Jim Bates of Bristol, a Marine Corps veteran who served in communications roles during Peace Time and took part in the Cuban Blockade, nominated by his nephew Scott Bateman.
  • Albert Cox of Bristol, an Army Vietnam veteran who was part of the 8th Infantry Bullets drill team, also nominated by his nephew Scott Bateman.

The send-off not only honored these brave veterans but also showcased our commitment to recognizing their sacrifices. As they embark on this special journey, the stories and camaraderie they share will undoubtedly create lasting memories, reminding us all of the importance of gratitude and support for those who have served our nation. Tri-Cities Airport is proud to play a part in this meaningful experience, ensuring that these veterans receive the recognition and appreciation they deserve.

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.

Kylie Toler
Tri-Cities Airport Authority
Marketing & Communications Specialist
423-325-6032
ktoler@flyTRI.com

TCAA Accounting Department Receives GFOA Award for 25th Consecutive Year

Kylie Toler on September 6, 2024

Tri-Cities Airport Authority (TCAA) is proud to announce that it has been awarded the prestigious Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for the 25th consecutive year.

The award recognizes the TCAA’s annual comprehensive financial report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023. The report has been judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, which includes demonstrating a constructive “spirit of full disclosure” to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the report.

The GFOA’s Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management. TCAA’s continued recognition over a quarter of a century highlights the Accounting Department’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards of financial accountability and transparency.

TCAA extends its gratitude to Rene Weber, Director of Finance, and the entire Accounting Department for their exemplary work. “We are incredibly proud of our staff for this outstanding achievement,” said Gene Cossey, President and CEO of Tri-Cities Airport Authority. “Receiving the GFOA Certificate of Achievement for 25 consecutive years reflects the hard work and diligence of our team. Their commitment to financial excellence is critical to our airport’s success, and we are grateful for their continued dedication.”

As TCAA continues to serve the region with excellence, the Accounting Department remains a cornerstone of its operations. This recognition from the GFOA honors past achievements and sets the bar for future financial reporting.

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.

Kylie Toler
Tri-Cities Airport Authority
Marketing & Communications Specialist
423-325-6032
ktoler@flyTRI.com

Notice of Upcoming DBE Consultation Meeting at Tri-Cities Airport

Trevor on July 31, 2024

Tri-Cities Airport Authority announces an upcoming event focused on the development of our Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program goals. We will be hosting a DBE 3-Year Goal Consultation Meeting.

Event Details:

Date: Monday, August 12, 2024
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. EDT


This meeting is a critical component in the process of formulating our DBE program goals for fiscal years 2025 through 2027, in compliance with Federal Regulations, 49 CFR Part 26. We are seeking input and feedback from representatives of minority and women-owned businesses to assist in establishing these goals.

The consultation meeting aims to discuss:

  • Proposed DBE goals
  • Availability and opportunities for potential DBEs at Tri-Cities Airport
  • Strategies to enhance DBE participation


Your participation is essential to ensure that our DBE program effectively addresses the needs and opportunities for disadvantaged businesses at Tri-Cities Airport.

Meeting Access:
The meeting will be conducted via GoToWebinar and can be accessed from a Mac, PC, or mobile device. For further details and to register for the session, please visit our dedicated page here.

For any questions or additional information, please contact Christopher Stipo at cstipo@flytri.com.

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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, Orlando Sanford, and St. Pete-Clearwater) on Allegiant, American, and Delta. For more information about Tri-Cities Airport, please visit flyTRI.com.

Tri-Cities Airport Partners with Eastman for Plastic Waste Recycling Initiative

Kat Bundy on July 11, 2024

An image of three colorful garbage and recycling receptacles.

Tri-Cities Airport Authority is excited to announce a partnership with Eastman, a global specialty materials company, to enhance plastic waste recycling efforts at the airport. This initiative will introduce convenient plastic recycling receptacles throughout the airport, promoting responsible recycling practices among travelers and staff alike.

“At Tri-Cities Airport, we are dedicated to sustainability and are excited to partner with Eastman in this important recycling initiative,” said Gene Cossey, President and CEO of Tri-Cities Airport Authority. “By providing convenient recycling options for our passengers, we are promoting responsible practices within our community and contributing to the innovative solutions developed here in our region.”

The collected plastic waste will be transported to Eastman’s new state-of-the-art mixed plastics processing facility in Kingsport, Tennessee. As the largest material-to-material recycling facility in the world, this plant underscores Eastman’s commitment to innovative and sustainable recycling solutions.

“Eastman is happy to announce another local partnership to help us as we all work to fight the plastic waste crisis,” said Brad Lich, Eastman executive vice president and chief commercial officer. “This partnership demonstrates our shared vision for a more sustainable future, where plastic waste is seen as a valuable resource that can be transformed into new products. It’s another proof point of how local businesses can come together to foster sustainability to help keep our region beautiful.”

By collaborating with Eastman, Tri-Cities Airport is taking a significant step towards a more sustainable future, making it easy for travelers to participate in these efforts.

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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, Orlando Sanford, and St. Pete-Clearwater) on Allegiant, American, and Delta. For more information about Tri-Cities Airport, please visit flyTRI.com.

New Parking Rates Effective July 1, 2024 at Tri-Cities Airport 

Tri-Cities Airport on June 27, 2024

The Tri-Cities Airport Authority (TCAA) has approved a new parking rate structure set to take effect on July 1, 2024. The adjustment comes as part of the airport’s ongoing efforts to ensure the sustainability of its operations and to meet rising operational and maintenance costs. 

Gene Cossey, President and CEO of Tri-Cities Airport Authority, commented on the need for the rate increase: “Parking fees represent a vital means of funding airport operations and maintenance without increasing costs to the airlines. This is crucial to maintaining and attracting new air service, which directly benefits our community. These adjustments will help ensure we can continue to provide the high level of service our passengers expect while keeping our parking rates competitive.” 

The last adjustment in parking rates occurred in June 2017, which saw an increase of $2 per day for short-term parking and $1 per day for long-term parking. This increase will help cover the growing operational and capital expenditures necessary for the airport’s future development. 

The new rates remain competitive and less than neighboring airports and those similar in size to TRI throughout the U.S., ensuring that Tri-Cities Airport continues to offer affordable parking options compared to other regional airports. 

For more information about the new parking rates and other airport services, please visit our website at https://flytri.com/traveler/airport/parking/

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.

Tri-Cities Airport Invites Businesses to Participate in Business Travel Survey to Enhance Air Service

triflight on June 5, 2023

Blountville, Tenn – Tri-Cities Airport (TRI) released a corporate and business travel survey today. The survey offers businesses an opportunity to provide valuable feedback and insights to enhance the passenger experience and improve air service in the greater Tri-Cities region.

The survey consists of 15 questions, covering important topics such as a comparison of 2023 vs. 2019 business travel, 2023 business travel plans, top 10 business destinations, airport usage, and interest in a Travel Bank. Participants can expect to complete the survey within 10 minutes or less.

Tri-Cities Airport encourages all business and corporate travelers in the greater Tri-Cities region to take part in the survey. The insights collected will guide the airport in developing strategies and initiatives that align with the specific requirements of the local business community. Survey feedback will also aid the airport in gathering data to support the case for additional air service.

“We value your participation in the TRI Corporate and Business Travel Survey and appreciate your continued support of the Tri-Cities Airport,” said Gene Cossey, executive director. “Your feedback is instrumental in our ongoing efforts to enhance the passenger experience and provide improved air service options that meet the needs of the Tri-Cities business community.”

Participants can access the online survey by visiting the link below: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/TRI-2023-Business-Survey. The survey will close Friday, June 16.

For additional information about the survey or any inquiries related to air service, please contact Kristi Haulsee, director of marketing and air service development, via email at khaulsee@triflight.com or by phone at 423-325-6032.

Tri-Cities Airport (TRI) is a full-service commercial airport serving Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, and portions of 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.