Air transportation systems play vital roles in determining a city’s economic status. The Port of South Louisiana Executive Regional Airport offers quick access to Southeast Louisiana and generates revenue dollars that benefit surrounding local communities. The effects are seen all along the Mississippi River, making it a vital part of the region’s prosperity.
The airport boasts much success in bringing in money to the area via its ability to attract and support dozens of different industries from around the globe, along with new construction projects.
Part of the allure is a 5,100-foot runway, new 6,300 square-foot hangar, and remodeled terminal building with a conference room.
What’s more, companies continue to grow and expand throughout the area because of the airport’s efficiency in serving its diverse customer base, not only providing aviation services to its general aviation customers but also to executives and contractors flying via private or business aircraft to locations near and remote. Reliable aviation saves valuable time and travel expense for passengers.
“The airport is important to the local economy because it provides almost immediate access for the corporate officers who fly in to meet with the industries in the port jurisdiction,” said Port Executive Director Paul Aucoin.
“Additionally, it’s an easy access low-cost fuel airport for local airplane owners.”
In the works
Businesses from near and far rely on the Port of South Louisiana Executive Regional Airport as a means to extend their range and customer bases. As a result, new construction projects brought in by the airport are ongoing.
Several new facilities are currently in the works including a Fairfield Inn and Suites development on Belle Terre Boulevard for SMC Hotels, Inc. by Shreveport, Louisiana-based Hand Construction Company, and the replacement of existing railroad bridges at Bonne Carre Spillway by Fulton, Missouri’s OCCI Engineering.
Located near an access point to Interstate 10, the Fairfield Inn and Suites complex is set to be a welcome addition for business and recreational guests of the River Parishes.
Large new railroad bridges at Bonne Carre Spillway will transport freight and raw materials for numerous Port tenants throughout the district. (Both of these projects will be featured in later editions of Port Log.)
Every dollar counts
Funds brought in by the airport benefit the vast region of Southern Louisiana, spanning from the River Parishes to New Orleans to Baton Rouge.
In addition to industries bringing in dollars, travelers flying in and out of the airport for leisure contribute to these financial gains.
Lunches, dinners, hotel stays, conferences, fast food restaurant meals, and money spent while in town — all dollars driven by the airport — assist in strengthening the area’s economy. Every dollar spent translates to local dollars and revenue.