Virginia City Council approves $75,000 for Tri Cities Airport airline recruitment

In the heart of Bristol, Virginia, city council members gathered on March 31, 2025, to discuss a pivotal resolution aimed at enhancing air travel options for the region. The meeting, marked by a sense of optimism, focused on a proposed financial commitment of $75,000 to support additional airline services at the Tri Cities Airport over the next two years.

As the council convened, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation. Mayor Nave opened the session, seeking the adoption of the agenda, which quickly moved to the main topic: a resolution to bolster air service in a bid to attract a new airline. Randy, a council member, presented the proposal, emphasizing its significance not only for the airport but also for the economic development of Bristol and its surroundings.

"This has been worked on for some time now," Randy noted, highlighting the collaborative effort among the airport's owners to secure funding. The proposed funds would contribute to a larger $2 million minimum revenue guarantee fund, designed to offset potential losses for the new airline during its startup phase. The council recognized that while the investment does not guarantee a new airline, it is a crucial step in recruitment efforts that could ultimately enhance travel options for residents and visitors alike.

Council members expressed their enthusiasm for the initiative, acknowledging the potential benefits for local tourism, particularly with the presence of attractions like Hard Rock. "This is a huge investment for our future," one member remarked, underscoring the importance of expanding flight options beyond the current limited routes to Charlotte and Atlanta.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications for the region, with council members noting that increased air service could facilitate greater access for tourists and business travelers, thereby boosting the local economy. "It shows the community is behind it," another member stated, reinforcing the collaborative spirit of the initiative.

As the meeting drew to a close, the council unanimously approved the resolution, signaling a hopeful step forward for Bristol's connectivity and economic prospects. With the commitment now in place, the city looks ahead to the possibility of new airline services that could transform travel options and invigorate the local economy.