November Meeting Recaps October Activity, Commission Action Items, and Upcoming Capital Projects

Passenger traffic at Richmond International Airport (RIC) marked a record high for October with 453,936 travelers welcomed, rising 6 percent compared to last year and 3 percent versus the previous record set in October 2023. During its monthly meeting, the Capital Regional Airport Commission also announced that, to date in fiscal year 2026 (FY26), passenger traffic is 4.5 percent ahead of the same period in FY25.

“RIC continues to experience strong momentum across all areas of our operations, with October marking the fifth consecutive month of record passenger traffic,” said Perry J. Miller, Ph.D., A.A.E., I.A.P., president and CEO of the Capital Region Airport Commission. “Even with uncertainty stemming from the recently ended federal shutdown and FAA-directed flight reductions at several major U.S. airports, we’re encouraged that passengers continue to place their trust in RIC and its airline partners for their travel needs.”

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Air service options at RIC expanded in October. RIC’s newest air carrier – Frontier Airlines – launched two new routes to Atlanta and Denver in October. A brief appearance by Frontier mascot Griz the Grizzly Bear and low introductory fares celebrated the inaugural flights. Air carriers will offer 38 nonstop destinations from RIC during the first half of FY26.

Airport expenses and revenue continue to outperform the FY26 budget, according to preliminary, unaudited data. Primarily driven by the increase in passenger traffic, airport operating revenue for October was approximately $500,000 more than projected, totaling $6.9 million. Year-to-date revenues totaled $26.7 million, exceeding projections by $1.4 million or 5.7%. Operating expenses year-to-date were $15.6 million, under budget by $1.1 million or 6.5%.

Gresham Smith, an architecture and engineering firm, presented an update on the consolidated security checkpoint project at the airport. Concept art for the new space visualized a streamlined entrance to the security checkpoint, double-height ceilings in screening and recomposure areas, and a reimagined open-concept concessions area. The space features abundant natural light and design elements echoing the flow of water, specifically the James River, to offer travelers a powerful sense of place as they arrive in Richmond.

In other business matters, the Commission reviewed and approved significant resolutions for the long-term growth of the airport, including:

• Airport consulting firm Kutchins & Groh, LLC, was awarded a contract estimated to amount to nearly $3.2 million for planning and engineering services in preparation for the RIC Airport Master Plan.
• A three-acre expansion to Enterprise’s lease at the airport was approved, which will allow the rental car company to accommodate additional parking.
• ATC Indoor DAS, LLC, which supplies and maintains the neutral host distributed antenna system (DAS) that delivers wireless provider services at the airport, was approved for a seven-year lease extension with the option for two additional one-year extensions in advance of planned renovations and increased demand. The amendment is expected to help close gaps in cellular coverage in the terminal.

The president’s report noted that on Nov. 21, 2025, the Commission hosted the 5^th annual P.O.W.E.R. Forum at the Greater Richmond Convention Center, bringing together small businesses, prime contractors, suppliers, and industry leaders for a day of dynamic networking session focused on engaging businesses in contracting opportunities. Over 400 individuals registered to attend, an increase of 24% compared to the 2024 event.

LeQuan M. Hylton, Ph.D. attended his first meeting as a newly appointed member of the Commission representing Chesterfield County where he is a member of the board of supervisors. He holds three degrees in business disciplines, including a Ph.D. in public policy and administration from Virginia Commonwealth University and has had a distinguished career in business and public service.

Kevin Carroll, secretary of the Commission, was designated to join the Commission’s foundation as a voting member. A resident of Chesterfield County, he also serves as the Matoaca representative on the locality’s board of supervisors.

About Richmond International Airport (RIC)
Richmond International Airport’s vision is to be the region’s preferred gateway to the world. Eleven passenger airlines and four dedicated cargo carriers offer service from RIC with connecting options to points around the globe. According to the Commonwealth of Virginia, activities attributable to the Airport create nearly 16,000 jobs and contribute about $2.1 billion in annual economic activity to Virginia’s Capital Region. To learn more, visit RIC on the web, X, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, or LinkedIn.