Albert J. Ellis Airport reaches new economic heights, according to 2023 aviation report
Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ) continues to reach new economic heights, from benefitting the local tax base to providing well-paying jobs to Onslow County residents.
According to a Wednesday morning news release from the county, the North Carolina Department of Transportation released its 2023 aviation report, which is based on data from 2021.
The release said OAJ contributed $707,470,000 to the state and local economy in 2021, including more than $228 million in payroll from jobs. The North Carolina Department of Transportation biannually views the economic impacts of the state's airports.
The NC State University Institute of Transportation Research and Education study found that more than 11% of the state’s economy is tied to airports and the businesses that use them, the release added.
“OAJ provides critical and convenient access to the nation’s air transportation system that supports business and industry as well as enhancing the citizens’ quality of life," Airport Director Chris White said in the release. "As the economy recovers from the effects of the pandemic, it is encouraging to see that the airport’s impact on the community continues to expand at a substantial rate."
More:Construction complete on phase two of Camp Davis Industrial Park. Here's what's to come.
More:Despite statewide increase, Onslow County syphilis cases finally on the decline
More:Crime up in Onslow County, sheriff's office awarded grant to hire victim services specialist
White explained the airport is home to two airlines, two medivac operations and a flight school. OAJ also hosts firefighting and cargo flights, supports aerial application for agriculture and provides the military with a location for important flight training and mobility.
The release added the report found that activity at the airport supports 3,410 jobs with a combined personal income of approximately $228,600,000. This economic activity generates an estimated $35,971,000 in state and local taxes.
"The airport is an important economic engine operated by Onslow County supplying much needed employment and generating governmental revenue used to help keep local taxes low," White said.
The release said OAJ has continuously served eastern North Carolina since opening in February 1971, adding the county-owned and operated commercial service airport in western Onslow County offers a 7,100-foot runway, modern ATCT and three gates.
Delta Air Lines and American Airlines both offer service at the airport with flights to major hubs, along with several charter companies. The airport also welcomes private, corporate, military, medical, agricultural, cargo and government aircraft daily.
The release said North Carolina’s system of 72 airports includes 10 commercial service facilities, like OAJ, and 62 public use general aviation airports. All airports across the state support local and regional businesses, tourism, military and economic development efforts.
In comparison, the report found that New Bern's Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN) provided 2,465 jobs with a combined personal income of $166,310,000, generating $26,931,000 in state and local taxes in 2021. EWN's total economic output was $512,650,000.
The full report can be viewed at www.ncdot.gov/aviation.
Reporter Morgan Starling can be reached at mstarling@jdnews.com.
This article originally appeared on The Daily News: Albert J. Ellis Airport reaches new economic heights, according to 2023 aviation report
