The facility retired all debt and bonds from its last terminal expansion, enabling it to keep operational costs remarkably low.“Our cost structure is very low to operate out of here. We take pride in that,” Sapone notes.The airport’s two runways, including an 8,000foot main runway capable of handling Group V and Group VI aircraft, feature modern technology with recent pavement rehabilitation and lighting upgrades completed four years ago. Allegiant Air anchors the airport’s commercial service as a base operation, housing three Airbus A320 aircraft and employing 88 crew members in a $77 million investment that launched in February 2022. “We have three aircraft and now we’re up to 11 destinations, and growing,” Sapone says. United and American Airlines complement this service with daily flights to Chicago, providing global connectivity through major hub airports. TERMINAL MODERNIZATION AND COMPLETE TRANSFORMATION Bishop International Airport launched a comprehensive terminal modernization plan in 2023, beginning construction in 2024 with a focus on creating what Sapone calls “a sense of place” for the community.“The current terminal flooring project will display images of Flint, as well as historic landmarks embedded in the terrazzo,” Sapone explains.“When you come into the airport, you’re going to see the cherished elements of the community reflected.” The terminal roof rehabilitation project includes stripping the membrane down to the structure and rebuilding it with energy-efficient materials. “The project includes new insulation, soundproofing, and a white roof reflective membrane for solar and energy efficiency,” Sapone notes. Phase one was completed last year, while phase two targets the airside terminal. “All casework and ticket counters on both landside and airside have been replaced, and the airport is currently remodeling all bathroom facilities throughout the terminal,” he adds. Future projects in design will address wayfinding through upgrading signage, digital displays, terminal roadway rehabilitation, and parking lot improvements. In addition, the airport is exploring covered parking spaces in the terminal lot. Concessions vendor, Tailwinds, will transform the restaurant and bar into a tiki-themed space. “Whenever you start your vacation here at the airport, it’s going to be like you’re at a tropical destination,” Sapone says. The 209 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 10 FLINT BISHOP INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
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