2009 Archives
Overview of Aviation in the Harrisburg Region
OVERVIEW OF AVIATION IN THE HARRISBURG REGION
HARRISBURG (June 30, 2009) - Today, the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC held its annual Transportation Briefing featuring Tim Edwards, Executive Director of Susquehanna Area Regional Airport Authority at the Hilton Harrisburg. Tim Edwards gave an overview of aviation in the Harrisburg region, while Jim Szymborski, of the Tri County Regional Planning Commission and Harrisburg Area Transportation Study, delivered brief remarks regarding state and federal transportation issues.
In Edwards' presentation, he delivered an industry update citing that in 2008 high fuel costs led to major airline capacity reductions. He also noted that HIA gained service to Newark and Orlando last year.
"Nationwide traffic is down an average of 12% in 2009, while HIA traffic is down 8%," said Edwards. "Average airline passenger revenue declined 26% in May of 2009 and HIA's fares are down 6.5%."
Edwards also discussed the Susquehanna Area Regional Airport Authority priorities which - included:
- aggressively marketing the region to keep existing service and to continue to expand airline service at HIA
- complete cargo study and identify new opportunities to expand cargo facilities to meet future air freight demand
- finish cooperative project with the PA 193rd to expand ramp
- work with state and local officials to complete train station project
- continue development of all three general aviation facilities
- finalize a use for the old terminal building
Edwards noted the average fares for HIA, BWI and PHL for May 2009. While HIA may not be the lowest fare, adding in drive, time and parking costs, the total costs are less. Edwards said, "Unless you send 3 or more employees in the same car, on average, it doesn't make sense to drive to save a few dollars."
Airport Tickets Sold Avg. Fare Drive, time and parking costs Total costs
HIA 13,722 $203 $46 $249
BWI 27,786 $146 $184 $330
PHL 22,030 $171 $225 $396
The Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC serves as a catalyst for promoting growth and quality of life in Cumberland, Dauphin and Perry Counties by providing a unique blend of business, community and economic development and advocacy services under one roof to boost our economic vitality and livability as a region. HRC/CREDC has been accredited with four stars from the United States Chamber of Commerce.
