The Avis Budget group announced on January 19, 2010 that Concord Regional Airport Corporate Agency Operator Delana Dawson was named the #1 agency location based on volume for the Southeast Region.

“I contribute it to my loyal Avis team members and our loyal client base. I look forward to many more successful years.” said Mrs. Dawson when told of this recognition. CRA Avis team members include: James Smith, Laura Bailes, Coty Caudill, and John Solari and have a combined 15 years of experience at the Concord Regional Airport.  Dawson also expressed her thanks for all the support from the Concord City employees, the Concord Regional Airport Management team and clients.

Avis is the only on-airport rental car agency serving the Concord Regional Airport. The Agency is also open to the public and serves many businesses near the airport and speedway area and as far as some business locations in Moorsville, NC.

Plane Joe Flight School is offering a 12 week Comprehensive Instrument Ground School and Refresher Course for pilots beginning on January 25th, 2010.

Concord Regional Airport is participating this year with the Salvation Army's "Angel Tree" program. The Angel Tree program provides new clothing and toys for children of families in need in our community. 

A collection box has been placed in the Airport Terminal Building Lobby through December 13th, 2009 for new unwrapped toys or clothing for a child 14 years old and under. 

We invite employees, tenants, customers, and the public to help make a child's Christmas this year by dropping in an item by December 13th, 2009.

Its that exciting time of year again at the Concord Regional Airport. The Fall NASCAR races are at the Lowes Motor Speedway this week, including Race#5 of the Chase for the Sprint Cup Saturday night.

Our staff is ready and prepared for the visitors and fans flying in to attend the races and other events in our area. This year we have additional aircraft ramp space available and we are participating with the NASCAR Nationwide Series in promoting the series and Friday night's Dollar General 300 race. Nationwide Series banners have been placed on the side of the terminal building, the series logos is on the aircraft apron, and blue Nationwide Series banners have been placed along the airport entrance road. Several of the series drivers will come through the airport this week. The events started on Tuesday with the press conference at the Roush Fenway racing headquarters, located at the airport entrance, announcing Ford will be racing the Ford Mustang car in the Nationwide series next year. 

For those flying in, please let us know what services you may need. Our FBO Customer Service Specialists can be reached 24/7 at 704-920-5900.

Ground shuttle bus and helicopter air transportation will again be available. We have been advised that continous ground shuttles will be running starting at 2PM on both race days for a round trip cost of $30 per person. Contact Shuttle's Specialty directly at (704) 598-3644 for addtional info. 

Follow the attached link to the Lowes Motor Speedway website for tickets and event schedules.

Longtime tenant and fixture at the Concord Regional Airport, Dr. Charles Nicholson will be closing his office at the end of the month after almost 15 years at the airport. He will be moving to the High Point, NC area to be closer to relatives and family.  He will be truly missed at CRA.

We will be holding an appreciation and sendoff event in the airport terminal lobby on September 30th, 2009 from 10 AM to 12 PM for him and his son Michael and invite former customers, tenants, friends, and the airport and aviation community to stop in and say hello, thank him for his dedication, or wish him well on the new chapter in his life.  

The tower personnel at the Concord Regional Airport were recently recognized as one of the top airport control towers in customer service, safety, courteousness, and community involvement out of almost 250 current contract airport control towers operating in the United States.

The Willie F. Card Federal Aviation Administration Contract Tower Service Award is presented annually to the FAA federal contract tower that most closely mirrors the vision of what the contract tower program exemplifies. This vision embodied providing excellent air traffic control services, both from a safety and customer service perspective, to all stakeholders in the local aviation community, with a professional and courteous attitude. Concord Regional Airport’s tower was one of the finalists for the award:

Concord (N.C.) Regional Airport --- The CRA tower, which is operated by Robinson Aviation (RVA), is staffed by a highly experienced group of controllers with an average of nearly 30 years per controller. Tower Manager Ken Johnson is active on the airport’s Safety Management System (SMS) Committee, participates in safety conferences, and is involved with school tours and other mentoring programs. Members of his staff also participate in customer service activities at the airport and value their role as the first point of contract to first-time pilot visitors. As one of the busiest airports in North Carolina, CRA is known as the base hub for the NASCAR motorsports air force. That means that for more than 30 weeks each year, many of the race teams use the airport to transport crews to and from races around the country. One letter of support for Concord’s nomination for the Willie F. Card award came from Joe Gibbs Racing Inc., which said that the tower personnel "get to know the users and anticipate their needs many times without the customer making the specific request." In addition to the NASCAR activity, the staff has dealt with major construction activity, including a runway extension and taxiway widening. The controllers handle a wide mix of traffic, including a large volume of helicopter traffic. They also handle significant flight training activity. From the time the tower became a contract facility in 2001, it has had no operational errors.

For the first time in NHRA history, modern Top Fuel dragsters and Funny Cars will race four-lanes, four-wide, unleashing a powerful assault of 28,000 horsepower on spectacular zMAX Dragway in Concord, NC.

In what is sure to be a must-see demonstration of the ultimate in high-horsepower performance, four NHRA Top Fuel dragsters and four NHRA Funny Cars will race in a four-wide configuration during separate races in a special exhibition event just prior to the final round of the NHRA Carolinas Nationals, on Sunday, Sept. 20.

Today's modern Top Fuel dragsters cover the 1,000-foot race distance in 3.8 seconds at more than 315 mph. Funny Cars travel the same distance in 4.0 seconds at 310 mph.

"With Bruton Smith's state-of-the-art zMAX Dragway, which features four lanes for competition, we have an opportunity to offer this incredible attraction to our fans," said Tom Compton, president, NHRA. "It will be the first time that fans can witness modern Top Fuel dragsters and Funny Cars running four-wide. With 28,000 horsepower it certainly will be a memorable spectacle to see."

Concord Regional Airport is less than 3 miles away from the zMAX Dragway, and we are excited and prepared to host drivers and fans flying in for the race weekend. Please call and let us know how we can assist your visit to our area.

For reservations or information call (918) 340-0243 or visit their website at http://www.libertyfoundation.org/index.html

May is always an exciting and busy month at Concord Regional Airport.  With all the NASCAR racing activity at the Lowes Motor Speedway three miles away, the airport will see a change is its normal aircraft traffic.  The Airport usually welcomes hundreds of visitors during the race weeks including flight crews, race fans, corporate sponsors, celebrities, dignitaries, and several race teams coming to see and participate in these exciting events.  In addition, we will be hosting many of the military demonstration, helicopter shuttles, and banner towing operations that will be occurring at the Speedway.

For those customers flying in, please let us know of any special service requests or accommodations you need by filling out an on-line service request or calling our FBO customer service desk at (704)-920-5900. We will do all we can to assist you.  Remember to ask about our volume fuel discounts!

 At the 2009 North Carolina Airports Association (NCAA) annual conference, the City of Concord's Aviation Director Richard K. Lewis was elected as the next President of the association that represents 72 publicly owned and operated airports in the state.  Mr. Lewis will begin this role on July 1, 2009 and serve a one year term. He has spent the current year in the Vice President role and had the responsibility among other duties to head up the association's Annual Convention which was held in Concord April 29^th to May 1^st. He has been actively involved in the association for almost 10 years and is known for his passion for the industry and for his advocacy for general aviation airports.  In 2005 he received the NCAA Presidents Award for those efforts including his work in organizing the Piedmont chapter of the association which brought together employees at airports within 50 miles of Concord Regional for regional meetings to discuss safety, regulatory, and other issues that affect airports.

The Association also awarded its annual Bruce E. Matthews to Scholarship to NC State student Amanda Matthews.

With the downturn in the economy there are a number of local needy families out there needing assistance. Due to the need, many food banks inventories are at all time lows. In response, The City of Concord is working closely with many community volunteers to make the Day of Service 2009 food drive with Secord Harvest Food Bank a success.

Collection barrels are located in the lobby of the City Municipal Building, Police Station, Brown Operations Center, terminal building at Concord Regional Airport and at all City of Concord Fire Stations.

On April 25th, all food collected will be taken to Roush Fenway Racing for sorting and distribution to local food banks.

If you are able, please participate this week only by dropping off non-perishable food item such as caned fruits and vegetables and peanut butter. Other non-food items like detergent, shampoo, and baby diapers are also items that are in great demand. Please do not drop off items in glass containers, baby formula or baby food, or any food condiments.

JQF WINGS "FLY-IN"

This all day fly-in event (8:30 AM to 7:00 PM) is hosted by Paramount Flight Services at their hangar and offices at the Concord Regional Airport (9301 Aviation Blvd., Suite CE-3, Concord, NC)

The fly-in is filled with many different types of events and activities. One of the featured events will be Mark Grady holding a AOPA Air Safety Foundation seminar on "GPS from the Ground up" from 10 AM to 12 PM. There will also be other seminars, flight training opportunities, a lunch, reception, and evening party.

Registration for the event is done online at the FAAST website: www.faasafety.gov

The Concord area is in for a treat next week as several historic T-28 aircraft will be taking to the skies as part of a formation flying clinic that begins Monday April 13th at the Concord Regional Airport.  

The T-28 aircraft flying here are members of the North American Trainers Association (NATA), which is conducting the Formation Flight and Safety Training clinic. Two of the aircraft participating “Charlie” models “092” and “666” are based right here at Concord Regional Airport.  The rest of the aircraft will be flying in from all over the country and from Canada. Around 30 of the aircraft are expected to particapate in this clinic.

The T-28 is a crowd pleasing large, fast and loud warbird with a 1425 HP radial engine. These warbirds have a commanding presence on the ramp and generate excitement in the air.  The T-28 has a top speed of 343 knots and cruises at speeds from 180 - 250 knots.

The North American T-28 was both and Air Force and Navy trainer used from 1950 until 1984. It was built in 3 versions, A, B, and C. The A model with an 800 HP engine was used by the US Air Force from 1950 to 1956 as a trainer and various other roles, and it replaced the Mustang fighter in reserve units. In 1952, the U.S. Navy contracted with NAA to build a B model version with a 1425 HP engine and other improvements. In addition to the B, the T-28C equipped with a tail hook and smaller diameter prop was also built for the Navy for carrier landings. In 1959, several hundred A models were shipped to France to be modified with the larger R-1820 engine and armament to be used in combat in Algeria. These aircraft were designated as T-28F or Fennec. The U.S. also modified A, B and C models into the T-28D to be used in combat in southeast Asia in the 60’s and 70’s, including Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. Ordinance included two 50 cal machine guns, fragmentation bombs and rockets. 

Although the T-28 Formation Flying and Safety Clinic is a private event for the NATA, the City of Concord will allow the general public the opportunity to view these aircraft from a distance as they start up and taxi to take off from the airport. A viewing area and a shade tent will be set up in the grass adjacent to the Concord Regional Airport terminal building.  For additional information, please contact Susan Green at (704) 920-5900 or by email at

As the Concord Regional Airport is located in the 12 Congressional District, we have the privalage of hosting the district's monthly Cabarrus County Satellite office on the fourth monday of each month.  

Eric Love, District Liaison for Congressman Mel Watt's office, is at the Concord Regional Airport from 12:00 PM until 2:00 PM each month and available to speak with anyone in the 12th Congressional District with a concern, comment, or request for Congressman Watt. No appointments are necessary.

The next opportunity to meet with Mr. Love at the airport will be on April 27th, 2009.

For additional information or to reach Eric Love in advance, contact (704) 344-9950.

The Concord Regional Airport  has upgraded the service provided to the wireless users in the Airport Terminal Building. Users can now download up to twice as fast as was previously available. Download speeds are now 3.0 Mbps and upload speed is 384 Kbps the fastest that is available until windstream upgrades its infrastructure near the airport.  As always the wireless access is provided free to our customers with coverage the terminal lobby, pilot lounge, and airport conference room.

Raleigh, NC - Noverant, Inc., an information, training and compliance management service provider, was selected by the City of Concord, NC to deploy and monitor all training for Concord Regional Airport (CRA), a major general aviation center serving the southeastern United States. In addition to training administration, CRA will also use Noverant in the deployment and implementation of its new Safety Management System recently required by the FAA.

"With the amount of training necessary and the recordkeeping required by the FAA", stated John Stoen, President of Aviation Safety Consulting, a consultant for CRA, "Noverant was the only service provider we could recommend. We can now put our emphasis on training and safety management rather than worrying about record keeping."

The Noverant solution being utilized by CRA is a secure web-based service originally developed for the highly-regulated pharmaceutical industry. After a major investment in 2006, Noverant expanded its expertise to other industries and has moved successfully into the aviation market in the past three years. Noverant's aviation clients include air charter operators, fixed base operators (FBOs) and fueling personnel, flight training operations as well as airport authorities.

"We're proud of being selected by Concord", relayed , Director of Marketing for Noverant; "Using Noverant Online to address FAA training and reporting requirements further validates the confidence the FAA, TSA, FDA and other government agencies have shown in Noverant. We are the only truly compliant web-based training and document management solution available in the aviation market. The fact that Concord Regional was the initial general aviation airport of 22 selected to participate in the FAA Pilot Study Program for Safety Management Systems demonstrates it is very well respected and an industry leader. Concord's selection of Noverant to satisfy the reporting requirements of the program and assist in FAA audits is a testament to Noverant's value-add and our proven ability to get the job done."

Concord Regional Airport is owned and operated by the City of Concord and is considered the hub of NASCAR Aviation. It is located in the heart of the highest growth corridor in North Carolina and offers convenient access to Lowes Motor Speedway and the Charlotte metropolitan area.

NOTICE TO PILOTS FLYING TO, NEAR, OR THROUGH THE WASHINGTON DC. AREA. NEW REGULATIONS WENT INTO EFFECT FEBRUARY 2009 THAT DESIGNATE A NEW SPECIAL FLIGHT RULES AREA (formerly known as ADIZ) AND INCLUDE NEW TRAINING REQUIREMENTS.

AOPA is advising and reminding all pilots flying within 60 nautical miles of the Washington D.C. VOR that they need to have completed the FAA's Navigating the ADIZ/SFRA online course and optain a course completion certificate. Information on the course can be found at www.faasafety.gov or visiting www.aopa.org/adizfaa

Chef Jeff & Co. is one of the newest companies to offer inflight catering services to aviation customers at the Concord Regional Aiport.  Their staff was out at the airport treating employees and airport customers to lunch samples on Thursday, February 19th as a way to meet and introduce their catering products to potential customers.

Chef Jeff & Co. is a local Cabarrus County company located less than 10 miles from the Concord Regional Airport. They have a website specifically for airport catering orders it can be found at the following web address:www.chefjeffco.com/jetintro.htm

The company provides more than just aviation catering. They have a carry home dinner store offering a variety of very tasty meal items and entrees. 

Concord Regional Airport Aviation Director recently approved a new volume discount fuel purchase program that all customers can take advantage of to increase their savings on aviation fuel purchases.

Two additional volume tiers have been added for Avgas to increase savings up to .25 off per gallon and it becomes easier to receive a discount with some tier level lowered.

For Jet "A" fuel purchases, customers can now save up to $.30 off per gallon and fuel purchase tier levels have been lowered as well to make it easier to obtain a fuel discount.

Also, in appreciation of our based aircraft customers, we have raised the based customer fuel discount by an additional $.10 per gallon. 

We hope many of our customers will take advantage of these savings in their flight planning activities and realize that we are here to exceed your expectations and make Concord Regional Airport the airport destination for the Charlotte Region.

For additional information on the new volume discount program, please speak to one of our Customer Service Specialists in the terminal lobby or call them at (704) 920-5900.

The City of Concord City Council passed a Tobacco Policy this month that generally follows the recently enacted Cabarrus County Health Alliance regulation on tobacco products for local government buildings in Cabarrus County. 

According to the new Tobacco Policy, all tobacco use is prohibited in all City of Concord buildings as well as near building entrances, exits, and air intake vents as defined by the North Carolina State Building Code.

The Airport Terminal Building has always been a non-smoking facility. This new policy extends the non-smoking (tobacco use restriction) requirements to all hangars and other buildings on the airport that are owned by the City on the airport. This includes leased hangars, hangars-in-common, all offices, and T-hangars.

The Aviation Department will be posting signs at many of these locations and appreciate our customers cooperation with this policy.

By Christopher R. Crum

The Reuters headline read, "Chastised Citigroup Grounds Plan for New Plane" on Jan. 27. You could feel the indignation and hear the tongues clucking across the country. I wonder if any of those so offended actually read the part that said, "The bank said the new plane would cut its costs and that it was financing the purchase by selling older jets." It seems that, thanks primarily to our top auto executives, the mention of an airplane causes everyone to ignore sound business principles. Of course, the media is only repeating what has recently become politically correct to espouse - using business aircraft is shameful. It would be humorous if it weren't so incredibly contrary to what is required to get us out of this economic mess, and just PLANE inaccurate.

In his inaugural address, President Obama told the world that we will not apologize for our prosperity. That prosperity is owed to the success of our capitalist system. Without apologies, the business aircraft is nothing more or less than a powerful "capitalist tool." This is a capitalist society, and the airplane a tool, a resource, a form of transportation. It provides many benefits for its users: safety, security, convenience, and, sometimes luxury. But most of all the business jet is a time machine that enables people to be in more places, and to get more accomplished in a shorter period of time. In business, where time and money are crucial - and often synonymous - it has unquestionable value. To disregard this fact, whether through ignorance or political correctness, forfeits our potential efficiency and a competitive edge that is desperately needed right now. We cannot afford it.

And speaking of affording it, yes, business jets are expensive. So are robotized assembly lines, oil-drilling platforms, and medical equipment. Like airplanes, these are all assets that require significant investment and greatly improve the performance of a task. But, are there ways other than business aircraft to get from point A to point B? Well, in the case of many areas, the answer is no. The United States has 20,000 airports, but fewer than 500 are served by commercial airlines. And, because the trip is often from A to B to C to D and back to A in a single day -- this itinerary cannot be achieved by other transportation. It is here that the value of time gives the bizjet an economic advantage.

Now, let's talk about the business aircraft industry. Not only are its products an indispensable efficiency tool for American industry, but it also provides significant innovation, exports and jobs. This industry contributes more than $150 billion to our economy. It supports 1,265,000 jobs and is among the few U.S. industries that consistently provides positive net export dollars. Yet, Washington tries to forbid loan recipients from even using business jets and the media offers almost daily attack articles like the one whose headline begins my discussion. Why should the legitimate capital expenditure to purchase a business jet be any less desirable for our economy than that of a locomotive, or ship, or airliner? It should not. And, by the way, for the past few years, most business jets have been sold outside of the United States where people are recognizing the competitive advantages of this resource.

Let us not allow the inept performance of a few executives in the automotive and financial industries to dictate the reputation and use of one of technology's finest contributions. We shouldn't allow misinformation to prevent us from using a resource that exemplifies efficiency. These aircraft can be effectively used by big business - and also by small businesses, ministers, athletes, artists and yes, even politicians. We should not be ashamed of owning, leasing or chartering a business aircraft. We should eagerly support an industry that contributes to our economy in so many ways. The financially responsible use of this "time machine" improves business performance, sustains/creates jobs, and contributes greatly to international exports. Isn't that exactly what we need to get our economy moving again? Shouldn't that make us proud? Shouldn't we stand up and let everyone know it?

I certainly will.

Christopher R. Crum

ccrum@sextantadvisory.com

On January 28th, 2009, NCDOT along with FAA Safety Team held a Helicopter Safety Summit at the Concord Regional Airport.  The event was very well attended. 

In addition from hearing from Federal and State avaition officials, several other experienced helicotper professionals spoke on topics ranging from off airport landings and takoffs to special operations in and under Class B airspace. After the initial opening sessions, attendees could choose which topic that they wanted to learn more about.

The Concord Regional Airport was happy to host the event and will continue to do so in the future. Please check the FAAST website up other upcoming safety meetings and events held at the airport.

In response to demand for office space from customers at the Concord Regional Airport, the City of Concord has leased a six office modular unit which it is now making available to companies or individuals who need an office at the airport.  The office unit is expected to remain in place until the airport terminal building is expanded in the near future. The terminal expansion will add an additional 10,000 SF to the terminal building and will include a significant increase in leasable office space.

Already, three of the modular unit offices have been leased.  Two remaining offices are 11 x 12 in size and will initially lease for $202 per month. The one smaller available office is 10 x 12 has a view of the airfield and will initially lease for $160 per month.

As office space goes extremely quickly at the airport, if your business has an immediate need for an office at the Concord Regional Airport, please contact Susan Green at 704-920-5915 before this opportunity to have airport office is gone.

Kevin Cary with The Charlotte Observer has written an article that features the Concord Regional Airport and its role, impact, and importance to the region.  The article talks about the economic impact of the airport and its importance to the NASCAR industry as well as a listing of upcoming airport projects.  The article can be found in the January 11, 2008 issue of the Charlotte Observer or Click here for a scaned view of the article.

Front Page

Page 9

In reponse to a frequent need by pilots to get reliable and affordable transportation to Charlotte's (CLT) Airport, Uptown Sedan Service is offering a new Airport Express service for Concord Regional Airport Customers who need to get to the Charlotte Douglas International Airport and have some time flexibility.

For a cost of only $30 (well less than a taxicab ride) this share a ride service will take you door to door, any time you need it 24 / 7.  Additional passengers are only $15 per person. 

Advance reservations are required and can be made M-F 7am to 7pm by calling 704-614-4110 or on-line at www.uptownsedan.com

Beginning on Thursday January 1st, 2009 and running through March 31, 2009, Pilot feedback surveys will be availailbe at the front counter of the Concord Regional Airport FBO. 

The program rewards pilots who visit the FBO and take the time and fill out a survey form regarding how they and their passengers were treated with regard to service, how our facility looks, and how we can improve. There is room for pilots to also recognize specific FBO employees who provided excellent customer service.

Rewards for pilots include (1) T-Shirt (2) Gift Bag (3) Coffee Mug (4) Special Avis Rent-a-Car discount (5) Gift Card.

The Concord Regional is serious about providing the best customer service to our valued customers and this program is just one of the ways we can see how we are doing and say thank you at the same time.

For those individuals who are not pilots, our on-line survey is available to provide your feedback and each month, those that complete an on-line survey are placed in a drawing for a shirt, mug, or CRA coaster.

December 22, 2008

GET YOUR AVIATION CHRISTMAS GIFTS BEFORE THEY ALL FLY OFF THE SHELVES!

Beginning on December 6, 2008, the Concord Regional Airport Pilot Shop, located on the first floor of the terminal building is holding its first ever "Christmas Sale" discounting many regular and speciality items 30%.  Some of the offerings include Aeronautical Toys, Jewelry, Apparel items, Travel Mugs, and Pilot Supplies.

Don't miss these great savings!

For additional information contact:

Valerie Speacht

(704) 920-5934

SUMMARY: This notice announces two fact-finding informal airspace
meetings to solicit information from airspace users and others,
concerning a proposal to revise the Class B airspace area at Charlotte,
NC. The purpose of these meetings is to provide interested parties an
opportunity to present views, recommendations, and comments on the
proposal. All comments received during these meetings will be
considered prior to any issuance of a notice of proposed rulemaking.

Times and Dates: The informal airspace meetings will be held on
Wednesday, January 7, 2009, from 3 p.m.-8 p.m.; and Thursday, January
8, 2009, from 3 p.m.-8 p.m. Comments must be received on or before
February 9, 2009.

ADDRESSES: 1. The meeting on Wednesday, January 7, 2009, will be held
at the Concord Regional Airport, Conference Room, 9000 Aviation Blvd.,
Concord, NC 28027. 2. The meeting on Thursday, January 8, 2009, will be
held at the Rock Hill Airport, Conference Room, 550 Airport Rd., Rock
Hill, SC 29732.
    Comments: Send comments on the proposal to: Mark D. Ward, Manager,
Operations Support Group, Air Traffic Organization, Eastern Service
Area, Federal Aviation Administration, P.O. Box 20636, Atlanta, GA
30320

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mike Schmidt, Support Manager,
Charlotte Airport Traffic Control Tower, 5507 Josh Birmingham Pkwy.,
Charlotte, NC 28208; telephone: (704) 359-1010.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Meeting Procedures

    a. The meetings will be informal in nature and will be conducted by
one or more representatives of the FAA Eastern Service Center. A
representative from the FAA will present an informal briefing on the
planned modification to the Class B airspace area at Charlotte, NC.
Each participant will be given an opportunity to deliver comments or
make a presentation. Only comments concerning the plan to modify the
Class B airspace area at Charlotte, NC, will be accepted.
    b. The meetings will be open to all persons on a space-available
basis. There will be no admission fee or other charge to attend and
participate.
    c. Any person wishing to make a presentation to the FAA panel will
be asked to sign in and estimate the amount of time needed for such
presentation. This will permit the panel to allocate an appropriate
amount of time for each presenter. These meetings will not be adjourned
until everyone on the list has had an opportunity to address the panel.
    d. Position papers or other handout material relating to the
substance of these meetings will be accepted. Participants wishing to
submit handout material should present an original and two copies (3
copies total) to the presiding officer. There should be additional
copies of each handout available for other attendees.
    e. These meetings will not be formally recorded. However, a summary
of comments made at the meeting will be filed in the docket.

Agenda for the Meetings

--Sign-in
--Presentation of Meeting Procedures
--FAA Explanation of the Proposed Class B Modifications
--Public Presentations and Discussions
--Closing Comments

Fourteen years ago today the Concord Regional Airport officially opened for business.

Today the staff celebrated with a birthday cake for employees, tenants, and customers. Susan Green and Ray Farrington, two of the original airport employees when the airport opened, were asked to help cut the cake in a brief ceremony this morning. 

The Concord Regional Airport has grown tremendously from its humble beginnings as a small reliever airport into a major regional airport that is a critical economic generator for our area. The airport is a base to many Nascar teams and is also a busy corporate aviation destination for businesses visiting the Charlotte area and the new North Carolina Research Campus in Kannapolis. In additional, the airport continues to hosts aircraft and people flying into the Charlotte area to see or participate in one of the many races held at the nearby Lowe's Motor Speedway and Z-Max Dragway.

Residents of this area are in for a Halloween treat this weekend, as the Collings Foundation brings three of their aircraft to Concord Regional Airport as part of their "Wings of Freedom" tour!

Their WWII Vintage Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress, Consolidated B-24 Liberator, and North American P-51 Mustang Announce Unique Display at Concord Regional Airport from October 31 to November 3rd.  

Local citizens will have the opportunity to visit, explore, and learn more about these unique and rare treasures of aviation history. The B-17 is one of only 9 in flying condition in the United States, the B-24J and Dual Control P-51C Mustang are the sole remaining examples of their type flying in the World. Visitors are invited to explore the aircraft inside and out - $12 donation for adults and $6 donation for children under 12 is requested for access to up-close viewing and tours through the inside of the aircraft. Visitors may also experience the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to actually take a 30-minute flight aboard these rare aircraft. Flight experiences are a tax-deductible donation. Flights on either the B-17 or B-24 are $425 per person. P-51 flights are $2,200 for a half hour and $3,200 for a full hour. For reservations and information on flight experiences call 800-568-8924.

The aircraft are scheduled to arrive at Concord Regional Airport at 2:00 PM on October 31 and will be on display at Concord Regional Airport until the aircraft departs November 3 at 12:00 PM.

Hours of ground tours and display are:

2:00 PM through 4:30 PM on Friday, October 31;

9:00 AM through 4:30 PM on Saturday, November 1;

9:00 AM through 4:30 PM on Sunday, November 2;

9:00 AM through 12:00 PM on Monday, November 3.

The 30-minute flight experiences are normally scheduled before and after the ground tour times above.

The North Carolina Research Campus Core Lab was dedicated and officially open for business today October 20th, 2008. The NC Research Campus is the vision of Dole Foods founder David Murdock who has invested $250 million dollars of his own money into the billion dollar public private partnership with the State of North Carolina, City of Kannapolis, Cabarrus County, & eight North Carolina Universities as well as private industry to provide a first of its kind campus that researchers can use to find cures to diseases like cancers and develop food, crop, and nutrition advancements to improve the quality and length our lives. 

The Campus is located in the City of Kannapolis on the former site of Pillowtex Mill and located only 10 miles from the Concord Regional Airport.  It is expected to eventually bring 20,000 plus new jobs to the area and transforming significant economic development.

As the only nearby general aviation airport with a 7,400 ft runway, control tower, security, and 24 hour Full-service FBO and ARFF service, the Concord Regional Airport is excited and ready to assist with the aviation transportation needs of the Campus. We already have many executive level and goverment officials use our facility when doing business at the Campus and are looking forward to grow as the Campus expands into the future.

The Concord Regional Airport has added the latest in presentation technology to the terminal building conference room. This technology is available for staff, tenants, and customers to utilize when using the conference room facilities.

SMART Technologies' SMARTBoard is more than just an electronic whiteboard. The touch-sensitive display connects to your computer and digital projector to show your computer image or presentation. You can then control the computer applications directly from the display, write notes in digital ink on top of the images and save your work to share later. The screen itself is touch-sensitive, and can be written on with a finger or special electronic markers. What's written or drawn can be captured to a digital file. The full-featured SMART Board interactive whiteboard is incredibly easy to use. If you can use a computer, you can use a SMART Board.

The Bank of America 500 Nextel Cup Race roars into town this weekend at Lowes Motor Speedway. This is the fifth race in the ten race "Chase for the Championship" and has Lowe's Home Improvement sponsored and Hendrick Motorsports driver Jimmie Johnson (#48) in the lead and Roush Fenway drivers Carl Edwards (#99) and Greg Biffle (#16) close behind.

On Friday night the Nationwide Series NASCAR race takes place at the Speedway which should be an action filled race and features talented newcomer Joey Logano making his first race at the Lowes Motor Speedway. With all this excitement the Concord Regional Airport again welcomes race fans, teams, sponsors, military, and celebrities to Concord and the Charlotte Region. With the track only 1.5 miles away, we are the destination of choice for air transportation for these NASCAR Events.  

The City of Concord FBO Staff roll out the red carpet for our guests. Our continued focus is taking care of our customers and operating safety and efficiently during this busy time. We have added extra staff to the ramp and customer service area. We are again providing complementary chili lunch under the tent on the ramp. Also, shuttle transportation will be available at the airport to and from the track. Shuttles will again provide bus ground transportation for $30 round trip and Helo Air is operating a fleet of helicopter shuttles back and forth from the track. Helo Air requires reservations and they can be made by contacting 888-FLY-HELO.

If we can do anything to assist your during your visit, please let us know by calling 704-920-5900. Our customer service counter is available 24/7 and is always answered by a live person, not an answering machine.  

The Concord Regional Airport will again be represented at the 61st National Business Aviation Association Annual Meeting & Convention. This is the first year our Airport's FBO display space will be with the Phillips 66 booth area (#228). Concord Regional Airport became a Phillips 66 Aviation Fuel Provider on July 1, 2008.

Our airport staff will be at the booth for the duration of the Convention providing us the opportunity let attendees know where we are and to promote the City of Concord and the Airport as a destination alternative to Charlotte's Hub airport.

In addition to being at the booth, our staff will walk the convention floor, attend sessions, and network with other aviation professionals to learn about new aircraft products, services, trends, and discuss the future of the business aviation industry during these challenging economic times.

If you are a pilot or will be attending the convention, please stop by our booth for a special gift. In addition Phillips will be giving away several items for visiting some of the other Phillips locations represented at their convention booth.  

Due to rain, thie originally scheduled September 27th event have been rescheduled for Octobe 4th.

Concord Regional Airport invites all tenants, their employees and family to come out and enjoy some good food, meet other of your fellow tenants, and see some of the many aircraft that are based here at the airport.

The Tenant Appreciation Event will run from 11 AM to 3 PM on Saturday October 4th at the T-Hangar ramp area on the north side of the Airport Terminal / Hangar Complex.

If you would like additional information or to coordinate the display of your aircraft, please contact Susan Green at 704-920-5915 or by e-mail at

The “Learn to Fly Seminar” will be held in the Paramount Flight Services facilities at the Concord Regional Airport, 9301 Aviation Blvd, Suite CE-3, Concord, NC beginning at 7:00 pm. Paramount Flight Services is the leading provider of flight instruction in the Charlotte area. For more information please call 704-784-1295 or email info@paramountflight.com.

Experimental Aircraft Association ("EAA") Charlotte Chapter 309 is bringing a 1929 EAA Ford Tri-Motor to the Concord Regional Airport as part of a national tour of the aircraft for public viewing and rides!

The public will have a chance to experience the early days of air travel in an aircraft that made aviation history. The Ford Tri-Motor was the airplane that gave rise to scheduled passenger flights.

The first scheduled passenger flight, as well as the first scheduled air freight flight, took place in a Ford Tri-Motor. On May 17,1938, Eastern Airlines flew the Ford Tri-Motor for the very first flight into Charlotte.  All major airlines began by using  a Tri-Motor.

This event will be held Labor Day Weekend from August 28th - September 1st on the ramp near the Airport Terminal Building at the Concord Regional Airport. Prices for ride along are $40 per person for EAA members; $50 per person for non-members. Please call 800-843-3612 or go to www.FlyTheFord.org to book a flight time or if you have any questions. Additional information can be found by visiting the EAA Chapter 309 website at www.eaa309.org.

On friday, August 8th, 2008, RVA, the Company that operates the contract control tower at the Concord Regional Airport, successfully passed its ISO 9000 audit and inspection and is now considered a ISO 9000 certified location.

ISO 9000 is a family of standards for quality management systems. ISO 9000 is maintained by ISO, the International Organization for Standardization and is administered by accreditation and certification bodies. Some of the requirements include:

• a set of procedures that cover all key processes in the business;
• monitoring processes to ensure they are effective;
• keeping adequate records;
• checking output for defects, with appropriate and corrective action where necessary;
• regularly reviewing individual processes and the quality system itself for effectiveness; and
• facilitating continual improvement

Ken Johnson, RVA local Manager said a lot of time and effort went into preparing the proceedures and documentation necessary for the ISO requirements which are now streamlined and consistant throughout the entire RVA organization.

The City of Concord Fire and Life Safety Department Airport ARFF Station #6 put on a live full scale aircraft accident drill at the Concord Regional Airport on Saturday, July 12, 2008.

The incident scenario involved an aircraft taking off and experiencing engine trouble and trying to return to land at the airport but crashing short of the runway leaving a fire and victims scattered inside and outside of the remains of the burning aircraft..

An aircraft was staged in the grass just northwest of the end of the runway and small fires were set off nearby the aircraft. Fifty volunteer “Victims” lay scatted around the aircraft acting out various degrees of injuries. Five full size mannequins were placed inside the damaged aircraft.

Once the call was made, responding crews had to get to the scene, assess the situation, extinguish the fire, find and rescue any remaining victims from the aircraft, then triage and evacuate the remaining victims from the scene all while coordinating with other mutual response agencies, airport and city staff.

Members of the media along with evaluators all watched the scenario from close range.

The City of Concord, Cabarrus County EMS, nearby volunteer fire units, police, airport staff, control tower, Red Cross, and local hospitals and participated in this live drill.

The drill was the first full scale drill of its kind in Concord. The FAA require that all airport that have a 139 Air Carrier Airport Operating Certificate to perform a drill at least once every three years to practice the procedures spelled out in the Airport’s Emergency Manual.

The City of Concord obtained its FAA 139 certificate in October of 2006 and has several carrier size aircraft operating on an unscheduled charter basis annually.

On July 1st, Concord Regional Airport celebrated the transition Phillips 66 Aviation Fuel.

On hand for the event were representatives from Phillips 66 where five brand new fuel trucks were put into service and customers were greated with banners, balloons, and Phillips 66 giveaways.

Richard K. Lewis, Concord Regional Airport's Aviation Director, takes on role of Vice President of the North Carolina Airports Association (NCAA).

Mr. Lewis begins this role on July 1, 2008. As Vice President of the Association, one of Mr. Lewis' responsibilities will be to head up the Association's Annual Convention to be held in Concord next spring.

The convention brings together leaders in the aviation community in North Carolina as well as many airport staff members, consultants, vendors, and State and Federal officials to network, discuss the condition of the industry, the needs of the airports in the State and how we can collectively work together to keep the North Carolina airports and aviatiion on the leading edge.

In addition to the Avgas trucks that arrived yesterday, we have also received a brand new International 5,000 Jet "A" Fuel Truck that will be put in service on July 1st as the Airport FBO transitions from Exxon Mobil to Phillips 66 branded aviation fuel.

One advantage that Jet "A" customers will see is a fuel that is preblended with a "prist" additive at no additional cost. Currently it costs an additional $.03 to $.05 cents for us to add this additive to the fuel. The purpose of this chemical is to prevent freezing of water so the jet engine runs smoothly at the extreme cold of high altitudes. An additional safety benefit of the additive is that it seems to retard growth of microbes in aviation fuels.

Phillips is also rolling out a rewards program for its credit card customers that we will be participating in.

Please visit the www.phillips66aviation.com web site for all the programs that they offer and to see the many other Phillips 66 network of locations that we will become a part of on July 1st.

Let us know if you have additional questions, comments or concerns about the move to Phillips 66 aviation fuel.

Ascent Aviation Group has delivered two brand new Avgas fuel trucks in preparation of the transition to Phillips 66 on July 1, 2008.

Phillips 66 is committed to General Aviation and has a program that provides fuel rebates to pilots that take first time flyers up in their single engine airplanes.

On the www.phillips66aviation.com website it says:

Phillips 66 Aviation is a proud supporter of the EAA and the Young Eagles program. We are committed to spreading awareness and excitement about general aviation to the youth of America. Through our Phillips 66 Aviation Rebate program that was introduced in 1994, we continue to support the pilots who make this possible.

By providing a $1.00 per gallon avgas rebate to all EAA Young Eagles volunteer pilots, Phillips 66 has helped the program achieve its original goal of one million flights. Over 4,000 pilots have used Phillips 66 avgas to introduce more than 350,000 kids to the wonders of flight.

Exxon Mobil Aviation Territory Manager, Melissa Overbay, presented the City of Concord Aviation Department staff with the 2007 Exxon Mobil Premier Spirit "Gold" Award for exceptional performance in Service, Training Certifications, and Quality Control.

Melissa stated that Our Concord – Avitat FBO again earned this award during the 2007 contest period which pilots who visit Exxon Mobil Aviation locations fill out survey forms on their experience and score the FBO location in terms of service, amenities, cleanliness, and transaction accuracy. Additional inspections are completed of the FBO facilities by Exxon Mobil personnel that look at staff training and certifications, quality control of the fuel storage and delivery systems, and fuel sales volume over previous years. Scores for each of these areas are then combined and compared to all Exxon Mobil locations throughout the North American system. Only the top 5% are eligible for the Premier Spirit Award and a fewer number receive the top “Gold” Award classification.

Melissa said that it says a lot about our staff because in the fourteen years the City of Concord has been an Exxon Mobil Aviation dealer, we have won the Premier Spirit Gold Award eight times! She said it would be likely we would have continued to win this award because of the dedication of the staff here at Concord. Our FBO will be changing to Phillips 66 branded fuel on July 1, 2008.

Aviation Director Dick Lewis, City Manager Brian Hiatt, and Assistant City Manager Jim Hipp were on hand when the award was presented during an appreciation luncheon for the staff.

Mr. Hiatt mentioned that the City’s Aviation Department staff set the example for other City departments for their long track record of excellent customer service. The City of Concord has put a strong emphasis on customer service in all departments and has recently implemented a “Committed to Excellent Service” program.

In addition to the lunch, each staff person received a gift card in appreciation of the commitment and hard work they put in to earning this award.

Exxon Mobil Aviation Territory Manager, Melissa Overbay, presented the City of Concord Aviation Department staff with the 2007 Exxon Mobil Premier Spirit "Gold" Award for exceptional performance in Service, Training Certifications, and Quality Control.

Melissa stated that Our Concord – Avitat FBO again earned this award during the 2007 contest period which pilots who visit Exxon Mobil Aviation locations fill out survey forms on their experience and score the FBO location in terms of service, amenities, cleanliness, and transaction accuracy. Additional inspections are completed of the FBO facilities by Exxon Mobil personnel that look at staff training and certifications, quality control of the fuel storage and delivery systems, and fuel sales volume over previous years. Scores for each of these areas are then combined and compared to all Exxon Mobil locations throughout the North American system. Only the top 5% are eligible for the Premier Spirit Award and a fewer number receive the top “Gold” Award classification.

Melissa said that it says a lot about our staff because in the fourteen years the City of Concord has been an Exxon Mobil Aviation dealer, we have won the Premier Spirit Gold Award eight times! She said it would be likely we would have continued to win this award because of the dedication of the staff here at Concord. Our FBO will be changing to Phillips 66 branded fuel on July 1, 2008.

Aviation Director Dick Lewis, City Manager Brian Hiatt, and Assistant City Manager Jim Hipp were on hand when the award was presented during an appreciation luncheon for the staff.

Mr. Hiatt mentioned that the City’s Aviation Department staff set the example for other City departments for their long track record of excellent customer service. The City of Concord has put a strong emphasis on customer service in all departments and has recently implemented a “Committed to Excellent Service” program.

In addition to the lunch, each staff person received a gift card in appreciation of the commitment and hard work they put in to earning this award.

James Ezell with recyclecycle.com has won the May 2008 drawing for an official Sam Bass Gallery Print.

The Concord Regional Airport FBO started monthly drawings this year as part of customer appreciation and to raise awareness of the airport gift shop products and our partnership with Sam Bass Galleries, the first officialy licensed artist of NASCAR.

As a gateway into the Concord and Charlotte, NC area, Concord Regional Airport is home to many NASCAR teams and proud to be affiliated with this industry. Sam Bass Prints are also displayed in several areas of our terminal building and can be purchased at our customer service counter.

To particpate in any one of the monthly drawings, just drop in a business card in the bowl at the customer service counter in the airport terminal building.

James Ezell with recyclecycle.com has won the May 2008 drawing for an official Sam Bass Gallery Print.

The Concord Regional Airport FBO started monthly drawings this year as part of customer appreciation and to raise awareness of the airport gift shop products and our partnership with Sam Bass Galleries, the first officialy licensed artist of NASCAR.

As a gateway into the Concord and Charlotte, NC area, Concord Regional Airport is home to many NASCAR teams and proud to be affiliated with this industry. Sam Bass Prints are also displayed in several areas of our terminal building and can be purchased at our customer service counter.

To particpate in any one of the monthly drawings, just drop in a business card in the bowl at the customer service counter in the airport terminal building.

The Country’s newest 142 Flight Training Center is now open in Concord, NC.

FlyRight, which was founded in 2003 to provide professional, simulator-based flight training to FAA part 91 and certificated operators, has opened the Country’s newest 142 Flight Training Center right here in Concord, NC. The Facility is located at 7275 West Winds Blvd by the Concord Regional Airport entrance at Derita Road.

Being a FAA 142 Training Center enables the company to offer initial, ATP, and recurrent training programs entirely in-house, using its Kingair B200 and Raytheon 1900D Level-C full motion simulators. The FAA also certified a FlyRight instructor as a Training Center Evaluator, eliminating the requirement for FAA examiners for checkrides.

For more information on the company and the services they offer, please visit their website www.flyrightinc.com or call them at 1-800-596-3054

The Country’s newest 142 Flight Training Center is now open in Concord, NC.

FlyRight, which was founded in 2003 to provide professional, simulator-based flight training to FAA part 91 and certificated operators, has opened the Country’s newest 142 Flight Training Center right here in Concord, NC. The Facility is located at 7275 West Winds Blvd by the Concord Regional Airport entrance at Derita Road.

Being a FAA 142 Training Center enables the company to offer initial, ATP, and recurrent training programs entirely in-house, using its Kingair B200 and Raytheon 1900D Level-C full motion simulators. The FAA also certified a FlyRight instructor as a Training Center Evaluator, eliminating the requirement for FAA examiners for checkrides.

For more information on the company and the services they offer, please visit their website www.flyrightinc.com or call them at 1-800-596-3054

Last Sunday, Linda Doherty with the Charlotte Observer Newspaper wrote an article in the Cabarrus Section featuring the Concord Regional Airport and flight school tenant Fly Carolina.
---------------------------------------
By Linda Doherty
The Charlotte Observer
5/18/08

One of my favorite stretches of road to travel is Poplar Tent Road just west of Interstate 85.
Although the traffic is usually backed up, I don't mind, because it gives me the chance to look over at the runway at Concord Regional Airport and see the planes landing and taking off.

I have always wondered who these people were and where they were going. To me, it's kind of like the secret airport that only a select few know about.

I wanted to be one of those select few, so I made a little visit to find out more.

Turns out this little airport offers a wealth of services, including a number of different flight schools. One is Fly Carolina.

I had the pleasure of meeting with James Garrett, the company's chief pilot and an instructor for Fly Carolina.

"We started back in 1996 as a flying club with one airplane. Now we have almost 30 aircraft in operation," Garrett said. Since then they have become the largest flying club in the Carolinas.

Besides flight training, Fly Carolina offers charter, sightseeing and something they call the Discovery Flight. So I asked what exactly a Discovery Flight was.

In a Discovery Flight, a pilot will take you up for a ride and then you let you drive the plane yourself so you can experience first-hand what flying is like.

Garrett wanted me to try, but I would prefer to stick with passenger jet planes. So I did the next best thing: I offered up my husband.

That's when we met pilots Peter Miranda and Brian Pence. Miranda, a flight instructor who also does photo flights, is one of the original members of the Fly Carolina Flying Club.

"Ever since I was 19, I knew I wanted to be a pilot," Miranda said. "I feel more nervous driving to the airport than I do flying."

So my husband headed for the skies in a Cessna Skyhawk 172, and he absolutely loved it. (Not as much as I loved watching with my two feet planted firmly on the ground.)

"The one word to describe the flight that comes to mind is ... awesome!" explained my husband, Jim. "Like Pete said, `This is as close to heaven as one can get.' He then let me take over.

"I must admit: While it was incredibly exciting, I felt a little uneasy. I had this fear of turning or pulling the wheel too abruptly and losing control," Jim said. "Apparently, however, I did it right, and relaxed after a bit. I believe that with experience, those fears subside.

"I highly recommend this to everyone, as words cannot describe the experience. The views, the freedom of the skies, are just fantastic," Jim said.

Fly Carolina's Discovery Flight is reasonably priced at around $100. With Father's Day just around the corner, it may be the unique gift you are looking for.

"Flying is my passion. It's my hobby and my part-time, soon-to-be full-time, job," Miranda said. "Very few people can say that they work at something they enjoy, and I feel fortunate to be able to be one of them."

One of the things I did notice at this airport was how happy everyone was. Even my husband had a huge smile on his face when he got off the plane.

Maybe everyone there is so happy because they know how lucky they are to be the select few who use this airport. I watched in amazement as people came and went, using their planes the way the rest of us use our cars.

So the next time you're inching your way down Poplar Tent Road, look up and see whether any planes are flying overhead. Chances are that, while we are all grumbling in traffic here on the ground, they are all flying to their destination with huge smiles on their faces.

Last Sunday, Linda Doherty with the Charlotte Observer Newspaper wrote an article in the Cabarrus Section featuring the Concord Regional Airport and flight school tenant Fly Carolina.
---------------------------------------
By Linda Doherty
The Charlotte Observer
5/18/08

One of my favorite stretches of road to travel is Poplar Tent Road just west of Interstate 85.
Although the traffic is usually backed up, I don't mind, because it gives me the chance to look over at the runway at Concord Regional Airport and see the planes landing and taking off.

I have always wondered who these people were and where they were going. To me, it's kind of like the secret airport that only a select few know about.

I wanted to be one of those select few, so I made a little visit to find out more.

Turns out this little airport offers a wealth of services, including a number of different flight schools. One is Fly Carolina.

I had the pleasure of meeting with James Garrett, the company's chief pilot and an instructor for Fly Carolina.

"We started back in 1996 as a flying club with one airplane. Now we have almost 30 aircraft in operation," Garrett said. Since then they have become the largest flying club in the Carolinas.

Besides flight training, Fly Carolina offers charter, sightseeing and something they call the Discovery Flight. So I asked what exactly a Discovery Flight was.

In a Discovery Flight, a pilot will take you up for a ride and then you let you drive the plane yourself so you can experience first-hand what flying is like.

Garrett wanted me to try, but I would prefer to stick with passenger jet planes. So I did the next best thing: I offered up my husband.

That's when we met pilots Peter Miranda and Brian Pence. Miranda, a flight instructor who also does photo flights, is one of the original members of the Fly Carolina Flying Club.

"Ever since I was 19, I knew I wanted to be a pilot," Miranda said. "I feel more nervous driving to the airport than I do flying."

So my husband headed for the skies in a Cessna Skyhawk 172, and he absolutely loved it. (Not as much as I loved watching with my two feet planted firmly on the ground.)

"The one word to describe the flight that comes to mind is ... awesome!" explained my husband, Jim. "Like Pete said, `This is as close to heaven as one can get.' He then let me take over.

"I must admit: While it was incredibly exciting, I felt a little uneasy. I had this fear of turning or pulling the wheel too abruptly and losing control," Jim said. "Apparently, however, I did it right, and relaxed after a bit. I believe that with experience, those fears subside.

"I highly recommend this to everyone, as words cannot describe the experience. The views, the freedom of the skies, are just fantastic," Jim said.

Fly Carolina's Discovery Flight is reasonably priced at around $100. With Father's Day just around the corner, it may be the unique gift you are looking for.

"Flying is my passion. It's my hobby and my part-time, soon-to-be full-time, job," Miranda said. "Very few people can say that they work at something they enjoy, and I feel fortunate to be able to be one of them."

One of the things I did notice at this airport was how happy everyone was. Even my husband had a huge smile on his face when he got off the plane.

Maybe everyone there is so happy because they know how lucky they are to be the select few who use this airport. I watched in amazement as people came and went, using their planes the way the rest of us use our cars.

So the next time you're inching your way down Poplar Tent Road, look up and see whether any planes are flying overhead. Chances are that, while we are all grumbling in traffic here on the ground, they are all flying to their destination with huge smiles on their faces.

It's May 2008 and for the City of Concord, its one of the most exciting months of the year with all the race activity at Lowe's Motor Speedway this month.

Activity at the Airport changes significantly as most of the race teams flying activity decreases and out of town visitor activity picks up with fans, sponsors, event participants, and aviation businesses involved in transportation come to town.

Helicopter, banner tow aircraft, and military aircraft involved in the pre race events all operate in and out of the airport.

Based aircraft are moved around so that there is plenty of room for out of town aircraft on our 17 acre ramp. Staffing is increased for to ensure safety on the ramp and make sure fueling and other need of our customers are met. Our air traffic controllers work extended hours to make sure aircraft can depart safely after the race.

On Nextel Cup race days a food tent is set up for visiting pilots and crews to relax or passengers to grab a bite to eat before heading over to the race track.

One challenge this year will be with the construction activity on our taxiway. Some sections are still closed so ramp entry and taxi routes will be modified to ensure a smooth flow of traffic. Pilots please review NOTAMS and check our airport projects page for most current information.

Helicopter and vehicle shuttle services to the track will again be operating. Information on transportation to the track can found by contacting:

Helicopter Transport - (888) FLY-HELO

Mini and Bus Transportation - (704) 598-3644

AVIS Car and Van Rental - (704) 795-2880

It's May 2008 and for the City of Concord, its one of the most exciting months of the year with all the race activity at Lowe's Motor Speedway this month.

Activity at the Airport changes significantly as most of the race teams flying activity decreases and out of town visitor activity picks up with fans, sponsors, event participants, and aviation businesses involved in transportation come to town.

Helicopter, banner tow aircraft, and military aircraft involved in the pre race events all operate in and out of the airport.

Based aircraft are moved around so that there is plenty of room for out of town aircraft on our 17 acre ramp. Staffing is increased for to ensure safety on the ramp and make sure fueling and other need of our customers are met. Our air traffic controllers work extended hours to make sure aircraft can depart safely after the race.

On Nextel Cup race days a food tent is set up for visiting pilots and crews to relax or passengers to grab a bite to eat before heading over to the race track.

One challenge this year will be with the construction activity on our taxiway. Some sections are still closed so ramp entry and taxi routes will be modified to ensure a smooth flow of traffic. Pilots please review NOTAMS and check our airport projects page for most current information.

Helicopter and vehicle shuttle services to the track will again be operating. Information on transportation to the track can found by contacting:

Helicopter Transport - (888) FLY-HELO

Mini and Bus Transportation - (704) 598-3644

AVIS Car and Van Rental - (704) 795-2880

Grob Aerospace Inc. is bringing their 2008 SPN Aircraft Display tour to the Concord Regional Airport on Friday and Saturday May 16th and 17th.

Visitors will be able to walk through their full scale mock-up and learn more about this new business aircraft.

Please contact Amy Abbott with Grob to schedule a personal appointment. Amy can be reached at (603) 766 6068 or via e-mail at
amy.abbott@grob-aerospace.ch

Additional Information can be obtained by visiting their website: http://www.grob-aerospace.net/

Grob Aerospace Inc. is bringing their 2008 SPN Aircraft Display tour to the Concord Regional Airport on Friday and Saturday May 16th and 17th.

Visitors will be able to walk through their full scale mock-up and learn more about this new business aircraft.

Please contact Amy Abbott with Grob to schedule a personal appointment. Amy can be reached at (603) 766 6068 or via e-mail at
amy.abbott@grob-aerospace.ch

Additional Information can be obtained by visiting their website: http://www.grob-aerospace.net/

Bomet Airstrip is more than 7,000 miles away and in a remote part of a poor county but it now has a new windsock thanks to some cooperation from the State of North Carolina and a group of folks who cared at the Concord Regional Airport.

Air Traffic Controller Jerry Byrum learned of a need through his church’s involvement with AIM AIR. AIM AIR provides air transportation for those who serve in Africa helping get people to small remote villages and hospitals.

With the help of Dr. Charles Nicholson, and City of Concord Aviation Department employees Glenn Hatley and Danny Jacobs who were able to obtain an extra windsock from the NCDOT Aviation Division, the windsock was sent to Africa in fall of 2007 and installed by a team at the airstrip, immediately improving safety there.

AIM AIR pilot John McNeely recently wrote a letter to Jerry in which he shared his appreciation and described the effect of the windsock gift. Mr. McNeely said in his letter that this airstrip is over 6000 ft elevation with rising terrain off both ends of the runway. Taking off with 5 knots of headwind or tailwind could make the difference in whether or not a plane can make it off and climb out of the terrain.

Being able to use the airstrip makes the difference between a 1 hour drive from the next nearest airstrip or a 10 minute drive to the nearby hospital.

Mr. McNeely expressed his great thanks and said our gift of the windsock will help them serve those who they serve more safely and efficiently.

Bomet Airstrip is more than 7,000 miles away and in a remote part of a poor county but it now has a new windsock thanks to some cooperation from the State of North Carolina and a group of folks who cared at the Concord Regional Airport.

Air Traffic Controller Jerry Byrum learned of a need through his church’s involvement with AIM AIR. AIM AIR provides air transportation for those who serve in Africa helping get people to small remote villages and hospitals.

With the help of Dr. Charles Nicholson, and City of Concord Aviation Department employees Glenn Hatley and Danny Jacobs who were able to obtain an extra windsock from the NCDOT Aviation Division, the windsock was sent to Africa in fall of 2007 and installed by a team at the airstrip, immediately improving safety there.

AIM AIR pilot John McNeely recently wrote a letter to Jerry in which he shared his appreciation and described the effect of the windsock gift. Mr. McNeely said in his letter that this airstrip is over 6000 ft elevation with rising terrain off both ends of the runway. Taking off with 5 knots of headwind or tailwind could make the difference in whether or not a plane can make it off and climb out of the terrain.

Being able to use the airstrip makes the difference between a 1 hour drive from the next nearest airstrip or a 10 minute drive to the nearby hospital.

Mr. McNeely expressed his great thanks and said our gift of the windsock will help them serve those who they serve more safely and efficiently.

NASCAR has announced a sanctioned Sprint Cup testing session will be held at the Lowes Motor Speedway on Monday, May 5, from 9 a.m. to noon; 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., then on Tuesday, May 6, from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Lowe's Motor Speedway is the racetrack located by the Concord Regional Airport, just northeast of Charlotte, NC.

All the favorite teams and drivers will be there for these testing sessions working to make the new COT race car perform better on the intermediate tracks on the NASCAR Sprint Cup Circuit.

This is a great and very affordable event for NASCAR fans to see their favorite drivers and cars on the track.

The Concord Regional Airport welcomes general aviation aircraft that would like to fly-in to see the testing sessions. With advanced notice, the aviation department FBO staff will help coordinate transportation to and from the race track.

In addition, tickets are still available for the premier NASCAR racing events at Lowes Motor Speedway in May, including the NASCAR All-star Race on May 17th and the Coca-cola 600 on May 25th. Visit www.lowesmotorspeedway.com for more information.

Concord Regional Airport FBO to become a Phillips 66 Aviation Fuel Dealer on July 1, 2008

  4/15/2008

At the City of Concord City Council Meeting on April 10, 2008, Ascent Aviation Group, a Phillips 66 Aviation fuel distributor, was awarded a five year fuel contract as the exclusive fuel provider for the Concord Regional Airport beginning on July 1, 2008.

The City selected Ascent due to it's proposal that stood out above all the other proposals the City received in terms of benefits and ultimate pricing to the aviation fuel customers as well as the commitment to customer service and involvement Ascent is willing to make to the operations and marketing of Concord Regional Airport.

Beginning, on July 1, 2008, Ascent will provide five brand new fuel trucks to the Airport FBO. Ascent will also assist in upgrades to the airport fuel farm, POS system, and training for FBO staff.

Aviation fuel customers will see benefits with pre-blended Jet "A" fuel product, lower credit card processing fees, and a pricing philosophy that will help the Airport FBO provide the customers the best retail prices possible.

More information will be forthcoming regarding the transition that will take place over the next two months. In the mean time more information regarding Phillips 66 and Ascent can be found by visiting the following web sites: www.phillips66aviation.com and www.ascent1.com

Airport Tenant Recognized by Customer for Excellent Customer Service

  4/1/2008

Concord Regional Airport tenant Avis Car Rental was recently recognized for excellent customer service they provided that left a lasting impression on a husband and wife in need of a vehicle rental on short notice.

The customer is quoted saying “It isn't often these days that we find a business focused on customer needs and we appreciated working with you. Again, thank you for a job well done.”

Our Avis location is run by Delana Dawson and is located in the Airport Terminal Building and is open from 7AM to 7 PM, Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 1 PM on Saturday, and 12 PM to 5 PM on Sunday.

Avis serves not only the pilots and passengers that use the Concord Regional Airport but also serves numerous businesses and the public in the Concord Mills Area.

Avis can be reached at:
Concord Regional Airport
9000 Aviation Blvd.
Concord, NC 28027
Tel:(704)795-2880
Fax:(704)795-1754

Avitat Concord Earns Premier Spirit 

  3/14/2008

The City of Concord Aviation Department learned this week that we have earned the 2007 Exxon Mobil Premier Spirit "Gold" Award for exceptional performance in Service, Training Certifications, and Quality Control. This is the second year in a row that we have been recognized with this prestigious award.

In addition, two of our employees, Twanda Pickens and Brit Bradford were recognized as being in the top 50 of all employees of Exxon Mobil Aviation branded FBO in providing outstanding customer service.

Our FBO will be presented with these awards at a special event in June of this year.

ACC Men's Basketball Tournament in town 

  3/13/2008

Concord Regional Airport welcomes visitors flying in for the 55th Annual ACC Men's Basketball Tournament held March 13-16, 2008 at the Charlotte Bobcats Arena in nearby uptown Charlotte, N.C.

Information on the tournament can be found at http://www.theacc.com/sports/m-baskbl/acc-mtournament-central-2008.html

If you have any transportation or other needs please let our Customer Service Staff know. They can be reached at 704-920-5900

Independant Tribune Writes Article on Future Airport Terminal Expansion Project

  3/9/2008

By Eric C. Deines

Sunday, March 9, 2008

CONCORD - The city of Concord is seeking a private partner for a proposed expansion of Concord Regional Airport’s terminal building.

And right now, officials are putting together a “request for proposal” from a private developer for the project.

Because of growing traffic at the airport from motor sports teams and businesses - about 800 people and 25 aircraft depart each race-week Thursday - the current activity of the terminal has exceeded that for which it was designed.

Dick Lewis, director of aviation at the airport, said the proposed expansion would include the construction of a second 12,500-square-foot terminal and - perhaps most importantly - a parking deck.

Currently, 100-125 additional spaces are needed at the airport to meet current demand. And with new hangars being planned at the airport, more parking needs are expected.

“You’ve got to do a parking garage or you can’t do the project,” Lewis said, noting that some airport customers have taken to parking on the grass at the airport when the lot is full.

In addition to a larger passenger processing area, the proposed building would also include offices for aviation department staff; car rental offices and counter; pilot areas and restrooms; meeting rooms; and storage space.

It’s also proposed that the building include a restaurant.

“You can’t just put in a hamburger and hot dog place,” Lewis said as to the direction of the restaurant, adding that the restaurant would be wholly maintained by an outside company. “The city does not want to go into the restaurant business.”

A feasibility study confirmed that a 4,600-square-foot restaurant could garner $1.3 million in revenue in its first year.

A report from the aviation department said the proposed restaurant would be “marketed as a restaurant at the airport, not an airport restaurant.”

Lewis said work on the project could begin as soon as three months from the time an agreement is reached with a developer.

Because work on the airport’s runway now allows for larger planes that hold up to 50 passengers, a larger passenger screening area is needed.

Lewis said the initiative is also anticipating future security measures that will be called for at all airports.

2008 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball March Madness Coming to Area on March 27th. 

  3/4/2008

Our local Charlotte 49ers basketball team, located just a few miles from the Concord Regional Airport, will be hosting the 2008 NCAA® Division I Men’s Basketball East Regional this year at the 18,297 seat Charlotte Bobcats Arena in the heart of Uptown Charlotte, not far from their campus.

Two Sweet 16 games will be played on March 27th and 29th with the winner advancing on to the Final Four at the Alamodome, in San Antonio, Texas on April 5, 2008. For more information visit the Charlotte 49ers website at http://charlotte49ers.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/08-m-baskbl-east-regional.html

The Concord Regional Airport welcomes fans flying in for the game. Please contact City of Concord Avitat Customer Service Counter at 704-920-5900 and let us know you how we can help. Our staff can work with you to find transportation and hotel accommodations.

As the airport of choice for getting in and out of the Charlotte Area quickly, we appreciate your choosing the Concord Regional Airport.

Aviation Medical Examinater Dr Nicholson Update

  3/3/2008

A Tenant, Friend, and Fixture at the Concord Regional Airport, Dr. Charles Nicholson has experienced a sudden medical issue last Wednesday afternoon, February 27th. Dr. Nicholson is now recovering but it may be a while before he can return to his office.

Dr. Nicholson has had an office in the terminal building at the airport for a number of years and he performs FAA Class 1, 2, & 3 Medical exams for pilots of all kinds.

In his absence, two nearby medical examiners have agreed to help out his patients with any needed or scheduled exam. Dr. Ron Gable, in Concord, can be reached at 704-786-2015 and Dr. Cecil Farrington, in Salisbury, can be reached at 704-637-1123. Additional Designated FAA Medical Examiners who are located in the Charlotte Region and can be found by visiting the www.AOPA.org website.

We wish Dr. Nicholson a speedy recovery and look forward to having him back at the Airport.

If you would like to send Doctor Nicholson any encouragement cards and letters as he recovers, they can be sent to his address at the airport as his family will be picking up his mail for him. His address is 9000 Aviation Blvd, Suite#116, Concord, NC 28027

Instrument Ground School and Refresher Course Starts March 3rd

  2/20/2008

Beginning on March 3rd, 2008, Designated Pilot Examiner Joe Killough with Steve Yancey are offering a 10 to 12 week course titled "Comprehensive Instrument Ground School and Refresher Course" on Monday nights from 6:30 to 9:00 PM at the Concord Regional Airport.

If interested please contact Mr. Killough at 704-488-2528 or Mr. Yancey at 704-305-2927

Representative Robin Hayes to present grant to Concord Airport

  2/15/2008

CONCORD – Representative Robin Hayes will present the City of Concord grant funding for Concord Regional Airport projects such as the Airport Runway and Taxiway Improvements and Land Purchase on Tuesday, February 19, 2008 at 2:30 p.m.

Concord Regional Airport is one of the busiest General Aviation Airports in the country and has an approximate $110 million impact on Cabarrus County’s economy each year and accounts for over 450 new jobs annually.

Continued improvements ongoing at the airport include a taxiway widening project to meet the FAA requirement of a full length 50 foot wide standard. Currently, only the new portion of the taxiway, which was constructed with the recent runway extension is 50 foot wide. The remaining portion of the taxiway is only 35 feet wide and will be widened by fifteen feet to meet the FAA Standard.

The taxiway widening project cost is $3,500,000 to complete. The City is contributing approximately $1,150,000 of that amount with portions of this grant being used for the remainder.

Chick-Fil-A will be back at the Airport on Thursdays

  2/8/2008

Due to the success of Chick-fil-a box lunch program on Thursdays last year, they are bringing it back again this race season.

The crew from the Concord Mills Blvd location will be here most Thursdays from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM serving box lunches to airport employees, pilots, and race team crews as they depart to their weekly race destination.

New this season, they will be also selling Sweet tea by the gallon, which can be taken on the planes along with the box lunches. Each gallon serves up to 10 people.

For more information or to pre-order for a flight, contact Angela at (704) 979-1120

New Hotel Under Construction Southeast of Airport

  2/7/2008

Great Wolf Resorts has begun construction of its $123 million dollar indoor water park and 10 story hotel southeast of the airport and Interstate 85 near the Lowe's Motor Speedway.

The 409-room resort will feature a 98,000-square-foot indoor entertainment area with an 80,000-square-foot water park, an 18-hole miniature golf course, a food court, an interactive fantasy game area, and spas for adults and children.

The resort is expected to generate $68 million for the local economy and provide 400 jobs.

One unfortunate aspect of the project for pilots is the use of a large crane close to the runway approach to Runway 2. The 210 foot tall crane went up in January and will be up for several months. The crane is orange in color and is lit. It is located 5,800 feet from the edge of the runway, and 950 feet left of the centerline.

Because of the crane, the PAPIs have been turned off to Runway 2 and several NOTAMS have been issued effecting RNAV Approach to Runway 2 as well as Runway 20 departure take-off minimums.

ALL NOTAMS can be found on-line by entering "JQF" at https://pilotweb.nas.faa.gov/ under the "Safety NOTAMS" tab.

Pilots are encouraged to use extra caution when flying near this area especially at night or during low visibility conditions.

Aviation Fuel Contract for Airport is Advertised

  2/5/2008

The five year fuel provider contract for the Concord Regional Airport expires on June 30, 2008. As was done in the past, the Aviation Department staff have begun the process of soliciting proposals and selecting an aviation fuel provider for the next five year period.

The airport is looking for suppliers that have excellent service, reliability, supply, safety, support, and pricing that will be of the highest benefit to the Aviation Department and aviation fuel customers that use the Airport.

For companies that are interested in responding, the Request for Proposal Advertisment can be found on the City of Concord Web site and reads:

The City of Concord, Concord Regional Airport, is seeking to identify firms interested in responding to a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the purpose of providing Aviation Fuel Requirements and associated activities.

To request the RFP package, contact Richard K. Lewis, Aviation Director, Concord Regional Airport, 9000 Aviation Blvd., Concord, NC 28027, fax (704) 793-1216 or e-mail: .

The RFP response will be due no latter than 5:00 PM, March 7, 2008.

19th Annual Schedulers and Dispatchers Conference a Success 

  2/4/2008

The Photo shows City of Concord Avitat Employees Glenn Hatley, Rob Walter, Christa Fox, and Susan Green staffing the booth at the 19th Annual Schedulers and Dispatchers Conference held January 29, 2008 through February 1, 2008 in Savannah, Georgia.

For the first time, City of Concord Avitat FBO had its own booth at the 2008 Conference and had the opportunity to show off our Airport and FBO to a record setting crowd of several hundred conference attendees. Four staff members greeted conference goers, provided information about the benefits of using the Concord Regional Airport and the City of Concord Avitat FBO.

FAA Issues Runway Safety Bulletin 

  1/21/2008

The FAA Southern Region Safety Program Manager issued a Runway Safety Bulletin regarding Runway Incursions including an update on statistics, a change in definition, and programs or procedures that should be followed to reduce these dangerous situations.

(1) The bulleting advises that the FAA has adopted the international definition of a runway incursion. That definition defines and incursion as “Any occurrence at an aerodrome (Airport) involving the incorrect (unauthorized) presence of an aircraft, vehicle, or person on the protected area of a surface designated for the landing and take-off of aircraft (Runway).”

What changes is that now it does not matter if an aircraft is operating on the runway at the time.

(2) The bulletin advises that incursions are up system wide and up 22% (from 9 to 11) year to date at airports with control towers in the southern region.

(3) The Bulletin advises that we all can help stop this rise in Runway Incursions as many incursions can be prevented with proper awareness, communications and driver training.

At the Concord Regional Airport we are undertaking a Safety Management System (SMS) program which will address runway incursion prevention. For familiarity with runway a taxiway designations, a current diagram of the airport can be found on-line at the FAA National Aeronautical Charting Office (NACO)
at www.naco.faa.gov/d-tpp/0801/09155AD.PDF

The FAA motto is “Runway Safety Is No Accident, It’s Everyone’s Responsibility”. Airport employees and tenants need to take time to think, look, listen, ask, and think again. Avoid distractions!

If you have any questions, comments or recommendations to reduce these incidents, please feel free to the FAA Runway Safety office at (404) 305-5593, or e-mail them at 9-ASO-Runway-Safety@faa.gov.

Charlotte ATCT Looking For Feedback From Pilots

  1/9/2008

The Charlotte Control Tower has launched a new Customer Satisfaction Survey on their website (www.cltatct.jccbi.gov) looking for feedback on how they are delivering their services.

Most pilots arriving and departing the Concord Regional Airport communicate with the Charlotte Tower or Approach Control either before they land or after leaving the airspace around the airport.

The short survey includes 10 questions which are answered by choosing a number on a scale of 1 to 5. There is also room for comments at the bottom of the survey.

If you are a pilot and have interacted with the Charlotte ATCT, please take a minute and assist them with this survey.

Here is the direct link to the survey: http://www.cltatct.jccbi.gov/Survey.dot

Come Visit Avitat Concord FBO at the S&D Conference

  1/7/2008

For the first time, City of Concord Avitat FBO have its own booth (table) at the 19th Annual Schedulers and Dispatchers Conference held this month January 29 through February 1 in Savannah, Georgia.

For years our staff have attended the conference and helped staff the Exxon Mobil Aviation booth at the Conference. This year we will be located in "Avitat Row" along with several other Exxon Mobil Avitat locations.

Convention attendees will now have an opportunity to see what our FBO and Concord Regional Airport have to offer, ask questions, talk with our staff members, pick up information and special giveaways.

If you our someone you know are attending this event, please stop by and see us.

Paramount Flight Services to Hold Open House on January 19, 2008

  1/4/2008

Paramount Flight Services will be hosting an Open House on Saturday, January 19, 2008. The event will be held in Hangar "C" at Concord Regional Airport from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. There will be FREE Hamburgers and Hot Dogs, tours of Concord Regional Airport, and the opportunity to interact with Paramount's Instructors. Paramount offers flight training and aircraft rental and is a designated Cessna Aircraft training center.

Paramount is please to welcome Premier Aircraft Sales, Inc and Diamond Aircraft as partners in the event.

Additionally, Cindy Bottiglio of Trey W. Siner Insurance will be available for investment analysis and estate planning.

For additional information visit Paramount's website at www.paramountflight.com or give them a call at (704) 784-1295

New Service and Safety Enhancements 

  12/31/2007

Red Carpet Service Now Available at Avitat Concord FBO!

In 2008, our customers will notice some new service enhancements when arriving at the Concord Regional Airport. The City of Concord Avitat FBO is now offering "Red Carpet Service". This enhancement has been requested by some customers and allows passengers and pilots to keep their aircraft interiors cleaner by providing passengers the opportunity to wipe their shoes off before entering their aircraft. For arriving passengers its a small way to show them that they are important and we are glad they are here.

Also, we have added some new safety enhancements on the ramp. We have purchased new Class 3 reflective jackets for our aircraft greeters to enhance their visibility to the pilots. In addition, new safety cones are being used and placed around arriving and parked jet aircraft. These cones are much more wind resistant and reflective.

The staff and employees are always looking for ways to improve safety and service. If you see something that we can do better, please let us know. One convenient way is to fill out our online survey form which can be found on our home page www.concordairportnc.com.

Getting into the Chirstmas Spirit

  12/3/2007

City of Concord, Avitat Airport staff, and other volunteers have worked hard to decorate the Airport Terminal Building for this Holiday Season. Holiday music, wreaths, trees, lights, ornaments, and poinsettias make the building an attractive and welcoming place for employees, tenants, and visitors.

From December 10th to December 14th. In the spirit of the holidays, cookies and punch will be available in the terminal building as part of our Customer & Tenant Appreciation Week. On Thursday afternoon and evening December 13th from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM our management staff will be holding a "Manager's Holiday Reception". Please drop by the airport terminal and enjoy spending time with staff, tenants, and airport friends. Light refreshments will be served.

Airport Pilot Shop Has More Than Pilot Supplies

  11/26/2007

Looking for a unique or aviation themed gift for Christmas? Check out the Pilot Shop at the Concord Regional Airport.

Much more than just needed maps, manuals, and pilot supplies, our shop carries a variety of unique gift and apparels items.

It's not just for pilots and visitors flying into and out of the airport. Its open the public and may be the perfect place to find that unique or aviation themed item for that family member or someone special on your list.

Airplane models, child "Bomber" jackets, and aviation themed plates and cups are all very popular gift items. We also have jewelry as well as shirts and hats. New this year, are the North Carolina beanie bears and NASCAR Artist Sam Bass prints.

The Pilot Shop is located in the terminal building at the Concord Regional Airport. Contact our pilot shop manager, Debbie at (704) 920-5900 for any questions or assistance. We will be happy to ship items to you if necessary.

Donations towards Chris Terry Fund now over $1,800

  11/23/2007

Donations made during the "Chili for A Cause" fundraiser have now exceeded $1,800.

The support of the airport and race team community has been outstanding.

The donation bowl and get well poster will remain in the terminal lobby until the end of the month.

The RTAA is matching the funds raised for this event meaning that so far $3,600 will be given to Chris Terry and his family to help with needs associated with his hospitalization and recovery.

Chili Fundraiser Raises over $1,700!

  11/19/2007

The Chili for a Cause Fundraiser held last Thursday for NASCAR Driver Jeff Burton's Pilot Chris Terry raised $1,727.25 on the day of the event. That amount will be matched by the Race Team Aviation Association.

Jeff Burton made an appearance as he was flying out to Homestead. Chris Terry's wife, Gina (pictured with Jeff Burton) was there to help serve chili and Chick-fil-a sandwitches. She was very appreciative of all the efforts.

A large poster was placed in the terminal building where people can sign and offer well wishes to Chris.

The poster and donation bowl will remain for a few more days for anyone flying back from the last race who may have missed the event Thursday afternoon.

Thanks again to all who participated, helped, or stopped by for this event.

We look forward to Chris full recovery and seeing him back at the airport again.

Chili For a Cause Fundraiser to be held Thursday, November 15, 2007

  11/7/2007

Concord Avitat FBO Staff will be holding a "Chili for a Cause" fundraiser for Chris Terry (Jeff Burton’s Pilot) and his family from 10 AM to 3 PM on Thursday, November 15th, 2007 in the terminal building at the Concord Regional Airport.

Chris Terry (husband and father of two boys) has been in the Hospital since October 6th after contracting Necrotizing Fasciitis known as “flesh-eating bacteria”.

This fundraiser provides an opportunity for race teams, pilots, airport employees, and others to make a donation and get some of Glenn Hatley's famous chili (with others fixings) for lunch before race teams depart for the last race of the NASCAR Season in Homestead, FL. The Race Team Aviation Association has generously agreed to match the proceeds raised from this event.

Chris’s prognosis’s is good but it will be a long time before he has fully recovered. His family has kept a website documenting everything that Chris has gone through fighting this disease. It can be viewed at www.caringbridge.org/visit/christerry

If you cannot attend the fundraiser but still want to make a donation, they can be sent to RTAA, Chris Terry 324 E. Church St. Troutman, NC 28166

Huge Short Track Racing Event Weekend at Concord, NC

  11/1/2007

Concord Regional Airport welcomes visitors to the largest short track racing weekend in the US. November 1st - 3rd, 2007.

Starting November 1st through November 3rd, Major Racing events are taking place at both premier short track racing facilites in Concord this weekend.

At the Dirt Track at Lowes Motor Speedway its the The inaugural World of Outlaws World Finals, which runs Thursday through Saturday, will be making racing history as the World of Outlaws Sprint Series and the World of Outlaws Late Model Series come together to end their seasons with one giant event. More information can be found on these events at wwww.lowesmotorspeedway.com

Also going on this weekend, November 2&3, 2007, is The 5th Annual John Blewett III Memorial North-South Shootout presented by Town & Country Ford at Concord Motorsport Park in Concord , NC. The best Modified drivers from both north and south of the Mason-Dixon will do battle in 100-laps of green flag racing on the famed half-mile tri-oval while the best Supermodified competitors in North America will vie for prominence in the inaugural 50-lap Wirtgen America East-West Supermodified Shootout. The popular SK-Type Modifieds will be part of the excitement with a 50-lapper of their own. The format for the fifth annual event will also include time trials, heat races, consolation race(s) and non-qualifiers event(s) for the Modifieds, Supermodifieds and SK-Type Modifieds. Support divisions include Crate SK-Type Modifieds, Four-Cylinder stock cars, and Vintage Modifieds. A complete schedule of events is available at www.north-southshootout.com.

Saftey Management System Request for Proposals

  10/26/2007

The City of Concord, Concord Regional Airport, has been selected to undertake a Safety Management System (SMS) program and is seeking to identify firms interested in responding to a request for proposals (RFP) for the development of a SMS as presented in FAA AC 150/5200-37. The SMS program will be combined with the Airport Operations Manual and training programs to create an implementation program and continuous training program for current and future staff, tenants, contractors, and other stakeholders. To request the RFP package, contact Richard K. Lewis, AICP, Aviation Director, Concord Regional Airport, 9000 Aviation Blvd., Concord, NC 28027, fax (704) 793-1216 or e-mail: . The RFP response is due by 5:00 PM, December 7, 2007.

Concord Avitat Receives Perfect Score on Quality Assurance Inspection

  10/18/2007

On October 17th, 2007 the City of Concord Aviation Department operated Avitat Concord FBO received a perfect score of 250 points on our Annual Exxon Mobil Aviation Quality Assurance Inspection.

The Quality Assurance Inspection is conducted by an Exxon Mobil Field Inspector and checks six areas from record keeping and line service training and certification to observing employees during actual aircraft fueling operations. No safety, procedures, or quality control discrepancies were observed in any of these areas.

The inspector stated our facility and operation is one of the top locations he has seen in the Exxon Mobil Aviation Network.

Grant Money Assisting Airport Projects

  10/15/2007

The Concord Regional Airport has received several grants for upgrades to safety issues at the airport.

They consist of:

Retrofit of the ARFF Unit (Fire Truck) for $40,000,
Land acquisition for $1 Million,
Airfield improvements of $166,667,
Taxiway widening project for $1.5 Million,
and a SMS Pilot Study of $100,000.

Many of these projects could not be accomplished without the help of the Grant funds which offset a large portion of the project cost.

Shuttle Service To Speedway now only $20.00 per passenger

  10/11/2007

Avoid the hassels of finding a rent-a-car, then fighting traffic and the parking nightmare at the race track. Instead ride in comfort and get dropped off and picked up right outside the main entrance of the Speedway.

Shuttle Speciality is again set to provide round trip shuttle service to the Lowe's Motor Speedway for both the Dollar General 300 on October 12th & the Bank of America 500 Race on October 13th.

THE TICKET PRICE HAS BEEN REDUCED TO JUST $20.00.

Reservations are not necessary but can be made by calling (704) 598-3644 or online at www.shuttlesspecialty.com

When you arrive at the airport for the Bank of Ameirca 500, a Shuttle Speciality representative will be at a table in the terminal building lobby and will direct you to a bus waiting just outside to take you to the speedway.

Then, after the event, the buses will be waiting for you just across the street from the main entrance at Lowe's Motor Speedway. Busses will be running all afternoon and until approximately one hour after the race is over.

For those fans attending the NASCAR Busch Race on October 12th, Shuttle will operate smaller 18 passenger mini bus on a call out basis.

October is Here! 

  10/1/2007

As October arrives, the Nascar Cup Racing Season heats up with the ten race Chase for the NASCAR NEXTEL CUP.

Race#6 of the Chase will visit the Lowe's Motor Speedway on Saturday Night, October 13th. In additional several other events will be held in the days before this race including Busch Series race and a dirt track event. Several Top drivers from the Cup Series usually participate in some of those races as well.

As always, the staff at the Concord Regional Airport and Concord Avitat FBO will be ready to handle the increased visiting aircraft and passengers flying into these events.

On Saturday, we will have complementary BBQ on the ramp for pilots and passengers before they head over to the track.

Helicopter shuttle services, and ground transportation operators will also be operating on Saturday. Our tower will also be open extended hours after the race.

Please let us know if there is anything we can do for you by contacting us at (704) 920-5900 or filling out an on-line service request form.

New 2007 Columbia 350 and Columbia 400 Aircraft to Visit Concord

  9/30/2007

Columbia Atlantic, LLC & the Fly Columbia Tour will be visiting the Concord Regional Airport (Oct.19 - Oct. 20) with a 2-day static display and exhibit of the new 2007 Columbia 350/400 featuring a Garmin G1000 with the new Garmin GFC 700 autopilot. The event will run both days from 9 AM to 5PM, with complementary food and beverages avialable.

In addition, the Fly Columbia Tour trailer is making only its second appearance to North Carolina with this visit. This trailer is the perfect exhibit to showcase a functional cabin mock-up of the Col 400, with the new G1000 and Columbia-exclusive ReadyPadT, and provide other visual specifications on these advanced technology aircraft.

As a special benefit for all of their guests, Columbia Atlantic, LLC is sponsoring a 2 hour weather clinic on Saturday, Oct. 20th, presented by Scott Dennstaedt of Chesapeake Aviation Training, Inc.

For additional information or to schedule a personal demo of the aircraft, contact Ernie Capone, Regional Sales Manager, at (919) 363 – 9342 or by e-mail at .

Event Summary:

* Static display of 2007 Columbia 350/400 Aircraft
* October 19 - 20, 2007
* 9 AM - 5 PM each day
* FREE Wx Clinic on Sat.
* www.flycolumbia.com

WWII B-17 

  9/6/2007

The Experimental Aircraft Association's B-17G-VE, - nicknamed, Aluminum Overcast will be visiting the Concord Regional Airport from Friday, October 5th through Sunday, October 7th.

Aviation enthusiasts will be able to walk through the airplane. Also, if they wish, they can take a trip back in time and feel the might of this magnificent flying machine through the flight experience program.

Half hour flights are available daily at 9:30 AM, 10:15AM, 11:00AM, 11:45 AM, & 12:30 PM. Reserved pricing for the flights are $359 for EAA members and $399 for non members. Walk up prices will be $385 and $425 depending on EAA membership.

Ground tours are usually offered daily from 2:00 – 5:00 pm. Rates:
$6.00 per Person (18 and up)
$10.00 per Family (adults/children 8-17)
$5.00 per student
FREE WWII Veterans
FREE Children under 8 years old w/ Adult

Also, In the EAA will be hosting a BBQ Dinner on Saturday evening October 6th, at the airport, which will include a panel discussion with B-17 Veterans and B-17 Fighter escort pilots. Cost for the evening event which includes the dinner is $11 per person.


Proceeds from the tour help keep Aluminum Overcast flying and will assist the continuing restoration, maintenance and preservation efforts of EAA.

Call 1.800.FLY.NB17 (1.800.359.6217) or email or visit www.b17.org for more information.

The EAA Local Chapter 309 has also set up a website at www.eaa309.org/B17/ where you can find additional details and contacts regarding the B-17 Visit to Concord and the friday night dinner event.

Original Concord Airport

  8/22/2007

Here is a photograph we recently received of the Original Concord Airport. No taxiways or paved runway back then.

If you have or know someone with information about this photo or the old airport, please share it with us.

Concord Avitat Is Participating in the 2007 Premier Spirit Contest 

  7/13/2007

The City of Concord - AVITAT is participating in the 2007 PremierSpirit Program which began on July 1, 2007 and runs through September 30, 2007.

The Exxon Mobil Aviation program encourages pilots who visit Exxon Mobil Aviation locations to fill out inspection forms ranking service levels, cleanliness, bill accuracy, and providing an opportunity to offer comments and suggestions.

If a pilot inspects six facilities within the contest period, they are eligible to select a model aircraft as shown above or 18,000 Pilots + Rewards points (if they participate in the Pilot + Rewards program). Additional rules and an opportunity to register on-line can be found at www.premierspirit.com.

Last year our Concord AVITAT location ranked near the top in these evaluation and we were awarded the Premier Spirit Gold Award. We participate in the program not only to compete for the prestigious award but also to receive feedback from pilots to improve how we operate and provide customer service to our visiting and based aircraft.

Alternatively, we also have an on-line survey that customers and visitors to this website can complete to offer us feedback. Once a month, we randomly select one individual who completed a survey during that month to receive an appreciation gift. Check out our home page for a link to that survey.

Aviation Department Receives Safety Achievement Recognition

  6/28/2007

On June 22, 2007 the Aviation Department was presented with a Certificate of Safety Achievement Award in recognition of exhibiting the highest quality of working safely.

The award recognizes that the City of Concord Aviation Department has remained below the North Carolina Department of Labor average, for similar job tasks, of worker injuries and lost work time.

Concord Regional Airport Selected to Participate in SMS Pilot Study

  6/12/2007

The Concord Regional Airport has been selected as one of only 26 airports in the country to participate in the FAA’s Airport Safety Management System (SMS) Pilot Study.

The goal of a SMS is to help airport operators continue to improve safety in the face of significant forecasted growth in air traffic activity.

SMS contributes to this effort by increasing the likelihood that Airport Operators will detect and correct safety problems before they result in an aircraft accident or incident.

The SMS process takes about six months with the end result expected to include an SMS Manual and SMS program that is systematic, proactive, well defined, and tailored to the individual airport and goes beyond procedures and actions that are currently in the Airport's required Airport Certification Manual.

The SMS process will look at our existing organization, our safety programs, policies, and procedures and look to revise, update, and improve them with training resources, utilizing trend analysis and risk management, defining safety responsibilities, promoting safety awareness and participation, establishing reporting systems, developing follow-up processes, goal setting, self-auditing processes, implementation schedule and cost analysis, and process for reviewing lessons learned from within the organization.

The Concord Regional Airport is known as a leader in the airport industry and we are happy to participate in this Pilot Study because we are committed and focused on safety.

Airport Experiences Very Busy May

  6/11/2007

The skies were busy last month. The Concord Regional Airport had its busiest May since May 2000. 7,714 takeoffs and landings were counted by the the Control Tower last month.

City of Concord Aviation Director Dick Lewis said that's about 1,000 more takeoffs and landings than the airport saw in May 2006.

Lewis said May is traditionally a busy time here, with a pair of NASCAR Nextel Cup races at Lowe's Motor Speedway. One difference he noted was that Airport traffic was fairly busy throughout the two weeks surrounding the races, not bunched up just around race days.

Landing on Runway 20 at Dusk

  6/1/2007

What is it like landing at the Concord Regional Airport at Dusk?

This pilot was kind enough to post a video of his textbook landing on Runway 20 on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L9mrJLLdbas

If you know who this pilot is, let us know. We have a Concord Regional Airport T-shirt for him.

NASCAR Driver Appearances at the Airport this Week

  5/22/2007

Several NASCAR drivers will be at their race shops, adjacent to the Concord Regional Airport, signing autographs this week.

At Roush Fenway Racing Headquarters & Museum 4600 Roush Place NW (at the entrance to the Airport):

David Ragan, driver of the 06 Car will be there on Wednesday, May 23, 2007 from 10:00 - 10:30am.

Todd Kleuver, Busch series driver of the 16 Car will be there on Thursday, May 24, 2007 from 10:30 - 11:00am.

Greg Biffle, driver of the Nextel Cup 16 Car will be there on Thursday, May 24, 2007 from 11:00 - 11:30am.

Carl Edwards, driver of the Nextel Cup 99 Car and 60 Busch Series Car will be there on on Friday, May 25, 2007 from 2:45 - 3:15pm. Visit www.roushracing.com for additional information

Over at at Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates, 8500 Westmoreland Drive (Northeast corner of the Airport) The following events are taking place:

Wednesday, May 23, 2007 » KID’S DAY 3:30 – 5:00PM

Friday, May 25, 2007 » FAN APPRECIATION DAY 11:00AM – 3:00PM and autograph session with Nextel Cup drivers David Stremme, Reed Sorenson and Juan Pablo Montoya.

Call 866.888.6388 for additional information

Concord Airport Welcomes Race Fans and Visitors

  5/14/2007

The weekend of May 26th-27th, 2007, NASCAR holds two big races at the Lowe's Motor Speedway www.lowesmotorspeedway.com.

On Saturday, May 26th, its the Busch Series Car Quest Auto Parts 300 Race and on Sunday, May 27th, 2007 its the NEXTEL Coca-Cola 600 Race, which is the longest race of the season (known as "The Beast of the Southeast")

Being only three miles from the speedway, Concord Regional Airport will welcome hundreds of visitors including flight crews, race fans, corporate sponsors, celebrities, dignitaries, and several race teams coming to see and participate in this exciting event. In addition, we will be hosting many of the military demonstration and banner towing operations that will be occuring at the Speedway.

Our experienced airport and Avitat FBO staff are prepared and ready for the increased traffic, especially on the day of the race.

Additional aircraft greeters will be directing aircraft to parking areas and shuttle vans will pick crews and passengers up at their aircraft and transport them to the airport terminal building where ground transportation or helicopter shuttle service coordinators are located.

This year our customer service staff has planned some special treats for hungry visitors and pilots when they arrive.

Please let us know of any special service requests or accommodations you need by filling out an on-line service request or calling our Avitat FBO customer service desk at (704)-920-5900. We will do all we can to assist you and are proud to be the airport of choice for the 2007 Memorial Day NASCAR Race Weekend.

Aviation Department Receives Litter Sweep Recognition

  5/11/2007

Every spring and fall, City of Concord employees together with the neighborhood organizations, collect litter along the City’s roadsides. During this years 2007 Spring Litter Sweep, 256 City co-workers participated in the clean up and 417 bags were picked up. Of that 417 bags, 16 bags were recycled materials.

The Aviation Department was recognized for collecting the most bags. The Airport team of Glen Hatley, Susan Green, Judy Hooks, Tom Gantt, and Holly McCurrach collected 54 bags on Derita Road.

In addition, Glen Hatley won second prize for most unusual piece of litter found.

Racetrack Shuttle Service Available to Lowe's Motor Speedway for May 2007 Races

  5/8/2007

Shuttle Speciality will again provide round trip shuttle service using their air conditioned motorcoach buses to the Lowe's Motor Speedway for both the All-Star Race on May 19th & the Coca-cola 600 Race on May 27th.

The cost this year will be $30.00 per person.

Reservations are not necessary but can be made by calling (704) 598-3644 or online at
www.shuttlesspecialty.com (Please retype link on your web browser)

When you arrive at the airport, a Shuttle Speciality representative will be at a table in the terminal building lobby and will direct you to a bus waiting outside the terminal building. After the event the buses will be waiting for you just across the street from the main entrance at Lowe's Motor Speedway. Busses will be running all afternoon and until approximately one hour after the race is over.

For those fans attending the NASCAR Busch Race on May 26th, Shuttle will operate smaller vehicles on a call out basis.

Concord Avitat wins PremierSpirit GOLD Award

  5/4/2007

Exxon Mobil Aviation has awarded the Concord Regional Airport Avitat FBO the Premier Spirit GOLD Award in the 2006 customer service contest!

Winning the GOLD Award means that Concord Regional Airport Avitat is one of top Exxon Mobil branded Fixed Base Operators (FBOs) in the Nation as determined by Exxon Mobil Aviation customer survey and Exxon quality control inspections.

The accomplishment not only reflects well on the airport and City of Concord Aviation Department staff who run the Fixed Base Operation, but also says to the local and visiting pilots that they can count on receiving the highest levels of customer service and fuel quality when flying into and out of the Concord Regional Airport.

Airport Line Service staff now 100% Safety 1st Certified

  5/4/2007

All Concord Regional Airport Avitat FBO line service personnel have successfully completed NATA Safety 1st requirements and are now Safety 1st certified.

The Safety First Program is widely recognized as the premier program for line service training and continuing education. To receive the Safety 1st certification, each employee must receive a perfect score on a practical line service exam to demonstrate a mastery of ground servicing procedures, ramp safety, refueling piston aircraft, refueling turboprop aircraft, refueling jet aircraft, fuel farm management, towing, customer service and fire safety.

This new certification is in addition to completing the Exxon Mobil Aviation Premier Care certification.

Concord Regional Airport and the City of Concord Avitat are dedicated to maintaining the highest safety and customer service levels possible by investing in our employees and the best training and certification programs available.

Aviation Director named to Avitat Dealers Council

  3/27/2007

Dick Lewis, Director of the Concord Regional Airport, has been named to the ExxonMobil Avitat Dealers Council. The Avitat network is comprised of independent ExxonMobil Aviation Fixed Based Operations – of which Concord Regional Airport is one. A council consisting of individually elected Avitat dealers who represent the entire network administers the programs of the network. The Avitat Council is the Avitat network's voice and direct line of communication to ExxonMobil Aviation. AVITAT is recognized globally as a leader in service and care by schedulers and dispatchers, as well as pilots and passengers. Lewis will serve a one-year term.

Concord Regional Airport Receives Limited 139 Airport Operating Certificate 

  2/12/2007

Concord Regional Airport recently received a Limited 139 airport operating certificate.
The FAA completed a review or the Airport Certification Manual and completed an physical inspection of the Concord Regional and issued the City of Concord an Airport Operating Certificate as a Class IV airport.
A Class IV Airport is an airport certificated to serve unscheduled passenger operations of large air carrier aircraft (ie. charter flighs)

The FAA regulates commercial airline operations and the airports they fly in and out of for safety, security, and standardization.
The City of Concord Regional Airport applied to the FAA for an Airport Operating Certificate (under Federal Aviation Regulations, 14 CFR Part 139). The airport Operating Certificate serves to ensure safety in air transportation.
To obtain a certificate, an airport must agree to certain operational and safety standards and provide for such things as firefighting, rescue equipment, airport staff training, airfield condition reporting, and aviation fueling.
The City of Concord Aviation Department had to develop an Airport Certification Manual that documented and described everything related to the airport operations and compliance with FAA regulations including, training, inspection and safety procedures, and how the City responds to any airfield emergency.
Having City Fire Station #6, a 24/7/365 facility, located at the airport with personnel already trained to respond to aircraft emergencies made this process a lot easier.
For Airports to be certified under the Part 139, The FAA will only issue a certificate after:
(1) Determining that the airport operator has implemented Part 139
(2) Approving of the airport certification manual; and
(3) Completing of the initial airport certification inspection

Paramount Flight Services has been designated as a Cessna Pilot Center. 

  11/21/2006

Paramount Flight Services announced today that it has been designated as a Cessna Pilot Center. Paramount Flight Services, located at the Concord Regional Airport, will be the only Cessna Pilot Center in the greater Charlotte region and is one of only five in the state of North Carolina (Ashville, Burlington, Raleigh and Rocky Mount).

As part of the agreement, Paramount Flight Services will add a new Cessna 172S Skyhawk airplane with the new Garmin 1000 glass panel. Paramount Flight Services will immediately begin utilizing the Cessna Computer Based Instruction Curriculum with interactive DVD’s, a structured syllabus and online progress tracking.

A prospective student pilot can now rely on the combined resources of the most recognized name in general aviation and the premier flight school in the Charlotte region. “The G-1000 glass panel and Cessna’s Computer Based Instruction, the most advanced instruction course available today, truly enhances what we have attempted to provide to prospective students – professional instruction using leading edge technology combined with outstanding customer service,” said Todd Rolfes, President of Paramount Flight Services.

Jim DeLong, Cessna Pilot Center Regional Manager, added “We are pleased to be affiliated with Paramount Flight Services, a leader in general aviation instruction. Their philosophy to teaching and attention given to customer service represent the values and objectives of the Cessna Company. We truly look forward to working with them in providing state of the art instruction in the safest, most advanced aircraft manufactured today.”

For more information or details, contact Todd Rolfes at Paramount Flight Services,
704-784-1295 or .

North Carolina Airport Association- Piedmont Chapter

  8/17/2006

The North Carolina Airport Association - Piedmont Chapter has been organized to help airports in the Piedmont area interact more with each other and within the association. It also helps airport staff to identify and address issues and concerns that affect Fixed base operators and general aviation airports. Seminars and workshop are held through out the year. Chapter Meetings are held every three months at Concord Regional Airport in the upstairs conference room. The next meeting is scheduled for October 11,2006 at 12PM.
For more information please call 704-920-5912

GPS Approach for RWY 02 Effective 0901Z Thursday, June 08, 2006 to 0901Z Thursday, August 03, 2006 

  6/1/2006

A new GPS approach is being published for runway 02.

A pilot and long term tennant at the airport, Larry Morris of Tarheel Aero Tech said this is great and will be very beneficial to the pilots.
The link to the FAA web site is. http://www.naco.faa.gov.

Aviation Director Dick Lewis Receives Award

  1/31/2006

At their annual Airport Communications Conference this week, the Federal Aviation Administration honored City of Concord Aviation Director Richard Lewis as their 2005 General Aviation Airport Manager of the Year for the Southern Region.

Among the accomplishments honored by the award are the successful completion of the 1,900 foot runway extension project, the $56 million dollar annual economic impact the airport has in the region, the winning of the Premier Spirit Award for the City’s Fixed Base Operation, the Accident Response and Wildlife Hazard workshops he coordinated, his participation in industry organizations such as the Contract Tower Advisory Board, and his involvement in the local community including his participation in Rotary, Leadership Cabarrus, and heading the City of Concord's 2005 United Way campaign.

The Federal Aviation Administration Southern Region includes airports in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Tennessee and the Virgin Islands.

Last spring, the North Carolina Airport's Association presented him with their prestigious Presidents Award for his work in organizing the Piedmont chapter of the Association bringing together employees at airports within 50 miles and facilitating meetings to discuss safety, regulatory, and other issues that affect airports.

Concord Mills had 17.6 million visitors

  1/23/2006

Mall continues reign as state's top tourist attraction in 2005
Concord Mills mall has just notched another record year in attendance and looks to remain the state's tourist champ as folks keep flocking there.
An estimated 17.6 million visitors came to the Concord retail outlet last year, mall officials said. That's nearly a 7 percent increase over the previous year.
The figures could have been even higher, mall spokeswoman Sharon Campbell said, if it hadn't been for the gasoline price hikes after Hurricane Katrina.
Higher prices may have kept some travelers away, Campbell said, although others closer to the mall decided to shop there rather than go on longer trips. So, the Katrina effect meant there was still an increase in traffic and sales, just not as much as it could have been, she said.
Still, the numbers likely mean the mall will secure its place as North Carolina's top tourism site for the third consecutive year. The state typically provides that information in the summer.
The mall's main rival is the N.C. portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway, which has ranked right behind Concord Mills for tourists. But parkway attendance dropped again last year, according to preliminary figures.
The parkway saw 12.6 million visitors on the North Carolina side, a 7 percent decline from 2004, National Park Service spokesman Phil Noblitt said. A rainy summer and the continued closing of portions of the road appear to have contributed to the decline, Noblitt said.
Campbell said the mall benefits from growth in the Concord area as well as from the addition of new stores to its mix of retailers. Late last year, for instance, the Dave & Buster's restaurant chain took over the former Jillian's spot.
And in case you're wondering, Concord Mills doesn't post someone at every entrance keeping tabs on who's coming and going. The mall estimates attendance by using traffic count devices under the parking lot concrete.
Mill and Millions
GENERAL
Opened: September 1999.Employees: 3,500 full-time, with another 1,000 part-time workers during the holiday season.
Stores: More than 200.
Size: 1.4 million square feet.
ANNUAL ESTIMATED ATTENDANCE
2000: 11 million.
2001: 12.5 million.
2002: 13.6 million.
2003: 14.3 million.
2004: 16.5 million.
2005: 17.6 million.
Source: Concord Mills

Cabarrus economy in transition

  1/23/2006

Welcome to a year of transformation for the Cabarrus County economy.
When Dari Caldwell, the new chairwoman of the Cabarrus Regional Chamber of Commerce, addressed the group's annual meeting this month, she spoke of businesses in transition.
The county continues to move beyond the loss of its biggest employer, one-time textile giant Pillowtex Corp. that collapsed 21/2 years ago.
"The stigma of the old economy has just about disappeared," said John Cox, chief executive officer of the chamber and of the Cabarrus Economic Development Corp.
Cox, Caldwell and other business leaders pointed to hopeful signs that seem to populate the county, from cranes alongside Speedway Boulevard in Concord to half-demolished factories in Kannapolis to a new race shop spinning into Harrisburg.
The change flowing through the county has many components. Four of the biggest involve biotechnology, health care, tourism and motorsports. For a look, see Page 12K.
North Carolina Research Campus
What it is: The planned $1 billion biotechnology hub from billionaire David Murdock is rising from the former Pillowtex Corp. textile complex in downtown Kannapolis.Why it matters: Murdock and company hope to alter the area's economy with high-paying jobs and pioneering work in health and nutrition. Some industry experts say it's way too soon to believe Murdock can pull off his plans to lure 200 biotech companies and create 8,000 to 9,000 direct jobs for the campus, and several times that in related work.
What's coming next: Big bangs, as more buildings fall to make way for the construction of the 350-acre campus. Demolition is ahead of schedule, and the iconic mill smokestacks will be toppled in the spring.
One more thing: Groundbreaking for the campus' first building, the Core Lab, is expected in February.
Embassy Suites Charlotte-Concord and Concord Convention Center
What it is: Developer John Q. Hammons is bringing the 11-story, 308-room hotel and convention center to Speedway Boulevard.
Why it matters: After years of wrangling over a convention center project, Concord will finally see the complex near completion this year. It comes packaged with the county's first full-service hotel. Total project costs are estimated at $60 million to $65 million.
What's coming next: A local pre-opening office to handle booking, sales and other work should open in early February , said Bill Mead, regional vice president for John Q. Hammons Hotels.
One more thing: The complex is now on track to open in January 2007, instead of between January and March 2007.
Motorsports
What it is: The county's favorite pastime. The longtime home of Lowe's Motor Speedway and established race shops will make room for more shops and related industries this year.Why it matters: The spring NASCAR all-star race, one of three race weeks at the track each year, puts a hefty $94 million into the local economy. That type of impact could explode even more if Charlotte is chosen as the home of the new NASCAR Hall of Fame; the city is one of three finalists, along with Daytona Beach, Fla., and Atlanta.
What's coming next: NASCAR should announce its choice for the Hall site this spring
One more thing: Haas CNC Racing broke ground last week on its 140,000-square-foot race shop in the Kannapolis Gateway Business Park.
NorthEast Medical Center expansion
What it is: The Concord hospital's new addition for children, the Jeff Gordon Children's Hospital at NorthEast Medical Center, will include 29 pediatric beds, including five for intensive care.
Why it matters: The $9.4 million project involves adding two floors to an existing two-story clinical services building. The children's hospital will occupy one of the floors. Neurology and post-surgical care departments, among other services, also will set up shop there
What's coming next: The hospital hopes to move into the new parts of the building by mid-December, said Carol Lovin, NorthEast's vice president for strategic planning.
One more thing: Construction also is continuing on a cardiology/oncology building at the hospital campus. Look for it to open around May 2007

NASCAR Important to Charlotte Area’s Economy 

  1/23/2006

The Charlotte region is home to America’s fastest growing sport. Ninety percent of National Association of Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) teams are located within 50 miles; however racing is more than entertainment, it is a highly specialized cluster of industries that brings more than $3 billion annually to the area’s economy.

“No other state has a motorsports industry that rivals this,” said John E. Connaughton, TIAA-CREF professor of economics at the University of North Carolina’s Charlotte campus.

Connaughton, who conducted a 2004 study on the economic impact of racing on the state’s economy, was a featured speaker during the Mobile Workshop, Behind the Checkered Flag: The Economics of NASCAR, during the Congress of Cities.

Motorsports creates about 24,400 highly-compensated, full-time jobs in North Carolina, he said. The industry includes museums, driving schools, parts suppliers and retail business.

Counting ancillary activities, hundreds of thousands of jobs depend on NASCAR, said Concord Regional Airport Aviation Director Richard Lewis, who conducted the workshop.

The participants’ bus drove a lap around one of Lowe’s Motor Speedway’s six tracks, which is being repaved this month.

The late-November to late-January off-season is actually the busiest time of the year for the industry, Lewis explained. Racing cars are re-skinned during this period.

As other states offer incentives to lure the motorsports industry away, North Carolina, which lost 175,000 manufacturing jobs in the past six years, must ensure that it remains, said Connaughton. Some racing-related firms have taken certain functions in-house and no longer need to be located in the Charlotte area, he added.

Workshop attendees also visited the 90-acre headquarters of Hendrick Motorsports, which builds 60 cars per year, as well as 700 engines that are leased to other firms.

Economic Impact of the Concord Regional Airport on the Cabarrus County Economy

  5/28/2005

A study was recently completed by UNCC Charlotte on the economic impact of Concord Regional Airport on the Cabarrus County economy.
The following list of bullet points highlights the economic impact that the Concord Regional Airport has on the Cabarrus County economy.

- The operation of the Concord Regional Airport in 2004 is estimated to generate $39,541,952 in direct annualized economic impact on Cabarrus County.

- The operation of the Concord Regional Airport in 2004 is estimated to generate $16,710,595 in indirect and induced annualized economic impact on the Cabarrus County economy.

- The operation of the Concord Regional Airport in 2004 is estimated to generate a $56,252,548 per year total annualized economic impact on the Cabarrus County economy.

- The operation of the Concord Regional Airport in 2004 is estimated to support 257 direct jobs per year in the Cabarrus County economy.

- The operation of the Concord Regional Airport in 2004 is estimated to support 212 indirect and induced jobs per year in the Cabarrus County economy.

- The operation of the Concord Regional Airport in 2004 is estimated to support 469 new jobs per year in the Cabarrus County economy.

For more information or a copy of the entire study please contact Richard Lewis at 704-920-5912 or by email

CITY OF CONCORD REGIONAL AIRPORT EXPANDS RUNWAY TO 7,400 FEET

  5/4/2005

Concord Regional Airport has extended the runway by 1,900 feet. The longer runway will improve safety and allow pilots to take off and land with greater fuel and passenger capacities, thus eliminating the need for refueling before reaching their destinations.

Now open Runway 02 has 7,400 feet for landing and takeoff, Runway 20, has 7,400 feet for take off and 5,100 feet for landing on the current ILS system. A new ILS system will be installed later this year which when installed will allow use of 6,300 feet of the runway on 20.

Serving both corporate and private aircraft, our FBO has a 12,500 square foot terminal with many amenities and services. In addition to wireless internet service, we offer a flight-planning room with AWOS and WSI weather planning, conference facilities seating up to 50, courtesy cars and pilot shop. The newly renovated pilots' lounge provides sleeping facilities with shower, satellite TV, and high-speed Internet workstations. Also available are catering services, ground power unit services, on-site aircraft fire and rescue, and pilot golf program with courtesy clubs.