News Room

 

  

 

 

Press Release

September 11, 2007

 

In response to persistent requests of the Valdosta Airport Authority, Delta Air Lines has responded with more competitive fares for flights departing Valdosta as compared to comparable flights from Jacksonville, FL.

 

Delta has committed to keep fares within $25, one-way, in comparison with same destinations from Jacksonville for advance purchases in excess of 14 days from the departure date. The differential increases as tickets are purchased closer to departure dates.

 

Additionally, Delta has also concurred with the request of the Airport Authority to reinstate the four flights per day schedule for October. They have done this for every day but Thursdays and Saturdays. The Authority is hopeful that positive response from flyers will encourage Delta to make this schedule permanent.

 

  1. The airport is currently extending the primary instrument runway, 17-35, from 6,302 ft to 8,002 ft.  Upon completion, Valdosta Regional Airport will have the longest commercial runway in the state after Atlanta and Savannah.  Although pavement works have been completed, new approach lights must be installed and the glideslope must be relocated.  The new 1,700 ft extension, at the south end of the runway, is not painted and is not operational at this time.  There are barriers that clearly show the closed portion of the runway.  We hope to have all work completed by early 2007 and then re-paint the entire runway prior to opening its length in full.  The current useable length of this runway is 6,302 ft. 

  2. There are two major projects that are currently in the design stage.  Taxiway A - parallel to Runway 17-35 - will be overlayed with new asphalt in the future.  This will enhance the safty and accessibility for all aircraft utilizing this taxiway.  The commercial aircraft parking ramp, at the commercial terminal, will be expanded so that it can accomodate larger aircraft.  This will allow the airport to accept larger passenger aircraft and increase the security of these aircraft and passengers.  Both of these projects are in the design phase, and we hope to begin construction in 2007-2008. 

  3. A new T-hangar was finished in May 2006.  This hangar is located at the south end of the general aviation ramp and is fully occupied at this time. 

  4. Additional projects that are planned include the construction of a new air traffic control tower, the demolition of the general aviation terminal, and the construction of a new general aviation terminal.  The timing and funding for these projects have not been finalized.