CAE Sets New Post-COVID Passenger Record, Plans Master Plan Update

Columbia Metropolitan Airport Meets New Milestone

After making a significant recovery from the COVID-19 slowdown, the Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) has recorded a new milestone. The airport, commonly known as CAE, is currently working on a plan to drive its future. Recent reports have indicated a notable 16% increase in passenger traffic between the years 2022 and 2023. After exceeding the 1 million passenger mark for the first time since the pandemic, the airport saw a further increase to 1.2 million passengers last year.

Improvements to Attract Potential Travelers

In light of this success, CAE seeks to make itself more appealing to prospective travelers through a series of significant improvements. Last year witnessed the completion of a $1 million project to enhance airline ticket counters and implement an in-line baggage system. This new system, which processes luggage behind the scenes, has eliminated the sight of bulky scanners in the lobby.

Better Services, More Traffic

Passengers can now hand over their checked luggage at the ticket counter, instead of hauling it to a second location for stowing. In addition to this, a common-use system was installed at the ticket counters allowing for easier shifting or addition of ticket counters. This not only improves the quality of services but also aids in attracting direct, cost-effective flights.

Transportation Security Administration Checkpoints Upgrade

Moreover, the airport upgraded its Transportation Security Administration checklists aided by a $5 million grant from the Federal Aviation Administration Airport Terminals Program. CAE is also refreshing its food and beverage services, which included introducing an in-terminal Samuel Adams Brewhouse. The expectation is that such improvements will further boost traffic through the airport and appeal to more carriers.

Next Steps and the New Master Plan

Coming next, the airport aims to provide a “seamless process” for consumers, making their experience from the garage to the gate efficient and comfortable, according to Kim Crafton, CAE’s vice president of marketing and air service development. As part of its efforts to strategize this objective, the airport is putting together its next master plan. This crucial document, updated approximately every ten years upon FAA requirement, outlines priorities for improving facilities and fulfilling the needs and wants of travelers and shipping clients.

Community Involvement and the Master Plan

In line with the airport’s focus on fulfilling passenger needs, CAE has brought the community on board in assembling its next guiding document. Surveys are being conducted in the terminal, with an online form available for community members to fill out before June 30.

Focusing on Cargo Operations

While the plan emphasizes attracting passengers and carriers, another key area of focus is cargo operations. Frank Murray, the airport’s vice president of planning and engineering, explaining the significance of cargo operations, said the airport aims to remain updated and understand what major companies want to do with their plans. This, in turn, ensures that the airport can meet commercial demand.

By taking these steps, Columbia Metropolitan Airport aims to better serve both passengers and businesses, thus playing a vital role in regional economic development.

Source: HERE News Network

Author: HERE News