“We have an outstanding facility with two runways, one that’s 7016 feet, and one that’s 5378,” describes Kevin Klein, CEO of the Northwest Regional Airport Authority.“Cherry Capital Airport is the third largest airport in the state of Michigan. We have seven airlines that service us to 20 non stop destinations. From the general aviation side we have great fixed base operators with Avflight, 45 North, and air ambulance services with North Flight Aero Med.” Those operators support nearly 100,000 annual aircraft operations and a base of 105 aircraft. The airport is also home to the U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Traverse City, which operates three MH 60 Jayhawk helicopters for search and rescue missions across Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, and northern Lake Huron. FESTIVALS, TOURISM, AND PARTNERSHIPS Passenger traffic at Cherry Capital Airport reflects the seasonal appeal of the region. Traverse City and the surrounding area are gaining attention as an ideal summer destination, drawing visitors from Texas, Florida, and the East Coast who want to escape the heat. “In the summer, we offer all kinds of great outdoor activities, from golf to wineries to trails, fishing, and family fun,” notes Klein. “We have cold temperatures in the winter and it’s the reverse. Our locals want to get out and go to some warm place. So that’s where services, especially airlines like Allegiant, have become strong in our market. They provide that ‘non-stop fun to the sun,’ so to speak.” With a name that highlights Traverse City’s heritage as the world’s leading producer of tart cherries, Cherry Capital Airport works hand in hand with local tourism agencies to attract visitors to the community. “We celebrate that with a pretty large festival that brings in upwards of 500,000 people into our area. It kicks off with an air show, usually with a major act, like the Blue Angels or the Thunderbirds, or a major military act with F-22s,” Klein describes. Additionally, the Traverse City Equestrian Festival, a summer long event, brings in 5,000 horses and generates an economic impact of roughly $124 million annually. 173 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09 CHERRY CAPITAL AIRPORT
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