News Summary
Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) is set to enhance its curb-front area with a three-phase reconfiguration project beginning March 24. Travelers can expect a streamlined pick-up process as the terminal length expands, although there will be some impact on the Baggage Claim area during construction. Additionally, the airport anticipates an increase in passenger traffic with new flight services from Allegiant and Spirit Airlines. A new hotel development is also in the works, promising to improve overall services and enhance traveler convenience.
Columbia Metropolitan Airport Kicks Off Exciting Changes!
Columbia, the bustling capital of South Carolina, is set to see some major improvements at the Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE). Starting Monday, March 24, CAE will embark on the first phase of a three-phase curb-front reconfiguration. This ambitious project is expected to last about 60 days and, while there will be a “slight” impact on passenger traffic in the Baggage Claim area, the end result promises to create a more streamlined experience for travelers.
Enhancing the Curb Experience
The main focus of this project is to enhance the pick-up area process for passengers, making it easier than ever to get to family or friends after a flight. The reconfigured curb front will extend the terminal length, allowing for a much smoother pick-up process. To ensure everything runs smoothly during construction, Airport Safety Officers will be on hand to manage traffic and keep things flowing. Travelers can expect clear signage to guide them if they have a Premier Parking pass or if they typically use Lot A, which will unfortunately be closed during this period. But don’t worry, access to the baggage claim, the pedestrian walkway from the garage to the terminal, and rental car returns will all remain open!
New Airlines and Hotel Development on the Horizon
As if curb improvements weren’t enough, CAE is also gearing up for an exciting boost in flight services! In May, Allegiant Airlines will increase its offerings, soon followed by Spirit Airlines in June. With an expected surge of over 2,700 passengers per day during peak times starting in May, it’s clear that Columbia is becoming a hot spot for travel!
To take the experience a notch higher, CAE is already putting into place a new camera-based ticketing system for pick-up and drop-off. This innovative system will help manage traffic flow efficiently, but drivers beware: exceed five minutes in front of the terminal and you could face some fines!
Looking ahead, CAE has plans to partner with a developer to bring a brand new hotel to airport property on approximately two acres. This proposed hotel will feature a four-story building with about 150 rooms, catering to travelers who need a place to rest after late-night flights or early-morning departures. The hotel plans to include delightful amenities like a rooftop bar and restaurant, as well as facilities for meetings and events, creating a welcoming space for both leisure and business travelers alike. The location at the corner of Airport Boulevard and Aviation Way offers direct access to the airport, making it super convenient!
A Bright Future for Columbia Airport
This hotel development forms part of a broader land development plan aimed at enhancing services and improving the overall passenger experience at CAE. Recent feedback surveys from the public have highlighted desires for more charging stations and conference spaces, and the airport is listening! In addition, CAE is planning to expand security checkpoints from two to four lanes to better accommodate the anticipated passenger influx.
In line with sustainability efforts and a greener future, CAE has also received a generous $3 million grant to set up a solar panel grid on the roof of its parking deck. This is just one of the many exciting initiatives aimed at creating an eco-friendly airport experience.
Lastly, local towns are joining forces to beautify the area surrounding the airport, which could have a positive impact on the new hotel development and make the locale even more attractive for local businesses. Columbia, get ready for a more seamless, enjoyable airport experience!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Columbia Business Report
- The State
- ABC Columbia
- WIS TV
- Post and Courier
- Wikipedia: Columbia Metropolitan Airport
- Google Search: Columbia Metropolitan Airport hotel development
- Google Scholar: Columbia Metropolitan Airport improvements
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Columbia Metropolitan Airport
- Google News: Columbia Metropolitan Airport news
Author: STAFF HERE Chapin
CHAPIN STAFF WRITER The CHAPIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREchapin.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chapin, Lexington County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Chapin Christmas Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, and the Chapin Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington School District One, plus leading businesses in retail and recreation that power the local economy such as Lake Murray Tourism and the Chapin Visitor Information. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
