News Summary
Asheville Regional Airport has unveiled a new ticketing lobby designed to enhance efficiency and improve the passenger experience. This upgraded facility features larger spaces and advanced technology for a more seamless check-in process. Travelers will still use the existing TSA screening temporarily as they adapt to the newer setup. This opening is the first phase of a significant expansion project intended to improve airline operations and accommodate growing passenger numbers, which exceeded 2 million for the second consecutive year.
Asheville, North Carolina – The Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) has officially opened the first segment of its new terminal on Wednesday morning. This newly unveiled ticket lobby is designed to enhance efficiency and streamline the passenger experience, allowing travelers to manage their bags and boarding passes more effectively beginning at 4 a.m.
The Chief Administrative Officer of AVL highlighted the long-awaited nature of this project, describing the lobby as stunning and expected to impress passengers. Early feedback from frequent travelers, such as the Amschler family, suggests that they are eager to experience a more seamless check-in process.
The new ticketing lobby boasts a larger footprint compared to its predecessor, featuring expansive windows, upgraded amenities, and an increased number of ticketing desks. It marks the first of two planned updates for the south end terminal, with the next phase anticipated to open in the coming years.
Transition Period and Passenger Access
For a transitional period of a few weeks, travelers will continue to utilize the existing TSA screening area after visiting the freshly opened lobby. Passengers can enter the terminal through any door but will need to pass by the old ticketing area to access the new space. Clear signage will assist travelers during this adjustment phase.
Operational Benefits for Airlines
The new ticketing lobby not only enhances passenger convenience but also creates additional space for airlines to operate and acclimatize to the updated setup. Advanced technology implemented in the new lobby enables rapid transport of bags from the check-in area to aircraft, with delivery times reduced to just a few minutes.
Expansion Plan and Future Developments
This new lobby opening is part of AVL’s larger expansion strategy that has been under development for nearly a decade. The airport is set to unveil the new North Concourse on June 25, 2025, which will include new gates that are expected to become operational on the same day.
Passenger Numbers and Economic Impact
In 2024, AVL recorded a total of 2,174,125 passengers, marking the second consecutive year that the airport exceeded the 2 million traveler threshold, despite facing challenges from storm-related disruptions. Although the figures indicate a 3% decrease in passenger numbers compared to the previous record year, the airport continues to maintain its status as a favored travel destination.
The economic impact of AVL on the local community is significant, estimated at around $3.9 billion. The airport supports over 22,745 jobs within Western North Carolina, which is crucial for regional economic stability.
Flight Options and Community Support
In addition to the modernization of the terminal, the airport has recently introduced new nonstop flight options, including routes to Orlando International Airport (MCO), reflecting an effort to broaden airline services. The CEO of the airport has acknowledged that, despite recent operational difficulties, robust community support has reinforced AVL’s role as a vital gateway to Western North Carolina.
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Additional Resources
- WSPA: Asheville Regional Airport Prepares to Open New Terminal
- WLOS: Asheville Regional Airport Unveils New Lobby Amenities
- AVL Today: Asheville Regional Airport’s Expansion Progresses
- Blue Ridge Now: Asheville Airport Announces New Retail Stores and Restaurants
- Wikipedia: Asheville
- Google Search: Asheville Regional Airport
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe 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 Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
