AIRPORT NEWS
While aeronautical activities in the area date back to reconnaissance and artillery spotting from hot air balloons in the 1860s during the American Civil War, Richmond International Airport’s history officially began on October 15, 1927, with Charles Lindbergh and The Spirit of St. Louis serving as the airport’s first official visitors. In 2007, the airport completed a major renovation project, establishing it as one of the most modern and well-equipped airports in the eastern United States.
To learn how the airport and the industry have evolved, see our History. To get the latest news, why not sign up for OnTime, our e-Newsletter? This publication is filled with the most up-to-date travel alerts, RIC news and airfare promotions.
RIC Receives Grant to Install Safety Transponders on Airport Ground Vehicles
Devices will relay real-time location to air traffic control and aircraft Richmond International Airport (RIC) has received grant funding to install Vehicle Movement Area Transponders, or VMATs, on approximately 60 airport ground vehicles. During the monthly meeting of the Capital Region Airport Commission, the Commission authorized the execution of the grant from the Federal Aviation…
Read More RIC Chief Operating Officer Named Virginia Airport Executive of the Year
John B. Rutledge honored for more than 20 years of airport leadership During the 2026 Virginia Aviation Awards ceremony, Richmond International Airport’s (RIC) Chief Operating Officer John B. Rutledge was recognized as the Airport Executive of the Year. “It’s always exciting to see well-deserved recognition, and John Rutledge is the quiet force helping Richmond International…
Read More Matthew Mazzotta’s TRAVEL COMPANIONS Fly Into Richmond International Airport
Ribbon cutting planned for first public art installation Hummingbirds may be seasonal in Virginia, but three of these tiny travelers are making a permanent home at Richmond International Airport (RIC) as part of a new art installation – TRAVEL COMPANIONS. A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, August 11, 2026.…
Read More RIC Reports Banner Fiscal Year
Airport exceeds $80M in revenue; sets all-time annual passenger and cargo records During the monthly meeting of the Capital Region Airport Commission, Richmond International Airport (RIC) announced all-time annual record highs for passenger activity at 4.96 million and cargo volumes of 235.5 million. The airport also reported outperforming budget projections for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26),…
Read More Richmond International Airport Earns 2026 Global Efficiency Excellence Award
Named Most Efficient Airport in North America Under 5 Million Passengers Richmond International Airport (RIC) has been named the most efficient airport under 5 million passengers in North America, earning the Air Transport Research Society’s (ATRS) 2026 Global Airport Efficiency Award. The Air Transport Research Society’s Airport Efficiency Excellence Awards recognize airports that demonstrate outstanding…
Read More Richmond International Airport Seeks to Reflect Region
Transformation efforts shared at monthly airport commission meeting emphasize community, culture, and customer experience Long-term growth and development at Richmond International Airport (RIC) was the focus of discussion at this month’s meeting of the Capital Region Airport Commission (CRAC). As RIC enters a historic period of transformation, headlined by a consolidated security screening checkpoint project…
Read More Airport Commission Approves Fiscal Year 2027 Budget
Record-setting April as passenger counts and cargo volumes rise 3.5% and 18.3%, respectively As Richmond International Airport (RIC) prepares for another year of growth, the Capital Region Airport Commission approved the Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) budget, which anticipates $79.2 million in operating revenues, $49.7 million in operating expenses and $166.5 million in total capital projects…
Read More RIC Cruises Into Summer Vacation Season
Nearly 1.4 million passengers expected to fly through Richmond Vacation vibes are on the rise as families and friends set their sights on summer plans. In addition to packing your sunblock, Richmond International Airport (RIC) has some important tips that could make your trip more comfortable and convenient. Between Memorial Day weekend and August, nearly 1.4 million passengers are expected to pass through the airport as part of their summer vacation travel. Travelers are encouraged to arrive early to…
Read More ¡Vamos! Breeze Announces Nonstop Service to Cancún
Twice weekly flights on Mondays and Fridays starting in January 2027 Starting in January, Richmond travelers seeking sun and fun can catch a quick, nonstop flight with Breeze Airways to Cancún, Mexico, where they’ll be greeted by gorgeous white sand beaches, vibrant culture and nightlife, and experiences for everyone. “Breeze Airways’ new nonstop service to…
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