encompass a vast orbit, each providing aviationrelated economic opportunities that circulate billions of dollars in capital investment.
Cecil Airport, a former Naval Air Station property, is now an essential industrial base for maintenance repairs on military planes. Jacksonville Executive at Craig Airport serves 300 + small private aircraft with tie-downs, hangars and fueling. Herling Recreational Airport supports leisure hobbyists who enjoy sky diving and gliding. Jacksonville International Airport( JAX) reliably ranks nationally in the top five airfields for being the most customer-friendly. Passengers love traveling through Jacksonville, as they are often greeted with live music, free book lending libraries and even therapy dogs to lessen stress along the concourses.
JAX is now completing a colossal $ 300 million Concourse B, spanning 170,000 square feet on three levels with six new gates, modern lounge areas, shops and restaurants. A new parking garage is also under construction, with capacity for 2,000 more vehicles. According to Greg Willis, JAA’ s marketing and public
relations manager, the new concourse presents the consummate opportunity for more regional growth at JAX, with more gates open to more destinations.“ We’ re investing in infrastructure so others can invest in our region,” he said.
JAX is user supported, meaning it
Greg Willis
receives no general tax dollars from Jacksonville. Like a private sector company, it makes enough money to pay its own bills. Users of JAA airports are charged fees or given leases for their usage. JAA also receives grants from federal and state governments for construction projects.
Our airport journey has ended, but investment in infrastructure has just begun. Economic prosperity points directly to Northeast Florida as DAB, KFIN and JAA take the region on a dynamic ride. Fasten your seat belts.
Marsha Lidskin has enjoyed a 40-year career in communications. She ' s written newsletters, speeches and articles and implemented community relations projects for nursing homes, school and park districts and municipal government.
FEBRUARY / MARCH 2026 | 21 |