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Economic Growth Driven by Golden Triangle Regional Airport

Aerial view of the Golden Triangle Regional Airport showing expansions and aircraft.

News Summary

The Golden Triangle Regional Airport significantly contributes to the local economy, generating over $272 million mainly through job creation and tourism. Recent expansions, including terminal renovations and a new flight route to Dallas, aim to enhance connectivity. Additionally, plans for acquiring 109 acres of land are underway to support further development, with backing from local leaders and municipalities. American Airlines will also extend its services from Columbus, reinforcing the airport’s role in boosting regional accessibility and economic viability.

Starkville, Mississippi – The Golden Triangle Regional Airport plays a crucial role in the economic development of the region, highlighting its significant contributions at a recent presentation delivered by Executive Director Matt Dowell to local business and community leaders. The airport’s impact is estimated to exceed $272 million, primarily stemming from job creation and tourism associated with airport operations.

Dowell’s presentation outlined ongoing expansions at the airport, which include renovations to the terminal and the construction of new storage and maintenance facilities. A major highlight for travelers is the planned introduction of a new westbound flight route to Dallas, aimed at enhancing connectivity for residents and businesses in the area. This development is underscored by American Airlines, which is set to begin using larger aircraft for its daily flights to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) starting in July, increasing passenger capacity and service availability.

In addition to these service improvements, the airport is exploring the purchase of a 109-acre tract of land to facilitate further growth and development. The acquisition, projected to cost around $1 million, is deemed urgent due to a current shortage of available plots and increasing demands at the airport. The decision to pursue this land follows unsuccessful attempts by a former buyer, who had intended to develop warehouses or migrant housing on the property.

The proposed land acquisition will involve financial contributions from neighboring cities and counties, which will share the responsibility for the loan with varying annual payments based on their respective stakes. This cooperative approach reflects a collective commitment to support the airport’s vital role in the regional economy.

In light of the airport’s ongoing expansions and new airline services, Dowell expressed optimism about conducting additional studies to further assess the economic impact of the airport on the surrounding communities. The Golden Triangle Regional Airport aims to lease the newly acquired land for potential economic development, which could lead to increased revenue streams and job opportunities for the area.

Support for these initiatives extends beyond airport officials; Starkville’s local leadership, including Vice Mayor Roy A. Perkins, has voiced strong backing for investments that foster economic growth and expand business opportunities tied to the airport. The Clay County Board of Supervisors has already approved the essential measures for the land deal, while discussions are scheduled among other municipalities in the upcoming meetings to ensure collaborative progress.

Adding to the positive momentum, American Airlines has announced it will extend its services to connect Columbus, Mississippi, to its broader flight network, with the new connections expected to begin on May 5, 2025. This expansion highlights the critical role of the Golden Triangle Regional Airport in enhancing accessibility and economic viability for the communities it serves.

The ongoing developments at the Golden Triangle Regional Airport underscore its importance as a catalyst for regional growth, with plans to attract more passengers and facilitate new business opportunities for Starkville and its surrounding areas.