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

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 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 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