1 

APPLICATION UNDER 

SMALL COMMUNITY AIR SERVICE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM 

DOCKET DOT-OST-2013-0120 

SUMMARY INFORMATION 

All applicants must submit this Summary Information schedule, as the application 

coversheet, a completed standard form SF424 and the full application proposal on 

www.grants.gov. 

For your preparation convenience, this Summary Information schedule is located at 

http://www.dot.gov/policy/aviation-policy/small-community-rural-air-service/SCASDP

A. PROVIDE THE LEGAL SPONSOR AND ITS DUN AND BRADSTREET (D&B) DATA UNIVERSAL 

NUMBERING SYSTEM (DUNS) NUMBER, INCLUDING +4, EMPLOYEE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER 

(EIN) OR TAX ID.

Legal Sponsor Name: New Hanover County Airport Authority

DUNS Number: 148017882

EIN/Tax ID: 561652319

B. LIST THE NAME OF THE COMMUNITY OR CONSORTIUM OF COMMUNITIES APPLYING: 

1. WILMINGTON, NC 

2. 

3. 

4. 

C. PROVIDE THE FULL AIRPORT NAME AND 3-LETTER IATA AIRPORT CODE FOR THE 

APPLICANT(S) AIRPORT(S) (ONLY PROVIDE CODES FOR THE AIRPORT(S) THAT ARE ACTUALLY 

SEEKING SERVICE). 

1. Wilmington International Airport (ILM) 2. 

3. 4. 
2 

D. LIST THE 2-DIGIT CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT CODE APPLICABLE TO THE SPONSORING 

ORGANIZATION, AND IF A CONSORTIUM, TO EACH PARTICIPATING COMMUNITY.

1. NC-07 2. 

3. 4. 

E. APPLICANT INFORMATION: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY) 

Not a Consortium Interstate Consortium Intrastate Consortium 

Community now receives subsidized Essential Air Service 

Community (or Consortium member) previously received a Small Community Air 

Service Development Program Grant 

If previous recipient: Year of grant(s): 2003 State of North Carolina (Consortium Member) 

F. PUBLIC/PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS: (LIST ORGANIZATION NAMES) 

PUBLIC PRIVATE 

1. New Hanover County Airport Authority 1. Air Service Focus Group

2. 2. 

3. 3. 

4. 4. 

5. 5. 

G. PROJECT PROPOSAL: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY) 

 Marketing Upgrade Aircraft New Route 

 Travel Bank Service Restoration Subsidy 

 Surface Transportation Regional Service Revenue Guarantee 

 Launch New Carrier Start-up Cost Offset First Service 

 Study Secure Additional Service Other (explain below) 

H. EXISTING LANDING AIDS AT LOCAL AIRPORT: 

Full ILS Outer/Middle Marker Published Instrument Approach 

Localizer Other (specify: VOR/PAPI/VASI)
3 

I. PROJECT COST: DO NOT ENTER TEXT IN SHADED AREA

LINE DESCRIPTION SUB TOTAL TOTAL AMOUNT

1 Federal amount requested $750,000 

2 State cash financial contribution $0 

Local cash financial contribution 

 3a Airport cash funds $130,960 

 3b Non-airport cash funds $203,500 

3 Total local cash funds (3a + 3b) $334,460 

4 TOTAL CASH FUNDING (1+2+3) $1,084,460 

In-Kind contribution 

 5a Airport In-Kind contribution** $77,970 

 5b Other In-Kind contribution** $12,800 

5 TOTAL IN-KIND CONTRIBUTION 

(5a + 5b) 

 $90,770 

6 TOTAL PROJECT COST (4+5) $1,175,230 

J. IN-KIND CONTRIBUTIONS** 

For funds in lines 5a (Airport In-Kind contribution) and 5b (Other In-Kind contribution), please 

describe the source(s) of fund(s) and the value ($) of each. 

5a: Airport fee waivers ($72,970) and program administration ($5,000) 

5b: Marketing campaign ($7,800) and program administration ($5,000) 
4 

K. IS THIS APPLICATION SUBJECT TO REVIEW BY STATE UNDER EXECUTIVE ORDER 12372

PROCESS? 

a. This application was made available to the state under the Executive Order 12372 

Process for review on (date) _____________. 

b. Program is subject to E.O. 12372, but has not been selected by the state for review. 

c. Program is not covered by E.O. 12372. 

L. IS THE APPLICANT DELINQUENT ON ANY FEDERAL DEBT? (IF “YES”, PROVIDE 

EXPLANATION) 

No Yes (explain) 

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________ 
APPLICATION UNDER THE SMALL COMMUNITY 

AIR SERVICE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

Wilmington International Airport 

Wilmington, North Carolina 

Legal sponsor: 

New Hanover County Airport 

Authority 

Contact: Jon Rosborough 

Airport Director 

1740 Airport Blvd. Suite 12 

Wilmington, NC 28405 

Phone: 910-341-4125 

JRosborough@flyilm.com 


APPLICATION 

UNDER THE 

SMALL 

COMMUNITY 

AIR 

SERVICE 

DEVELOPMENT 

PROGRAM

WILMINGTON INTERNATIONAL 

AIRPORT

Prepared by 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section 1. Application Highlights ..................................................... 1

Higher than Average Airfares ......................................................................... 1

Community Cost Contribution ........................................................................ 2

Public-Private Partnership.............................................................................. 2

Material Benefits ............................................................................................ 2

Use of Funds in a Timely Fashion .................................................................. 2

Section 2. Air Service Environment ................................................. 3

Large and Growing Catchment Area .............................................................. 3

Proximity to Other Airports ............................................................................. 3

Strong and Diverse Economy ........................................................................ 4

Section 3. Air Service – Existing/Historical ..................................... 6

Existing Air Service ........................................................................................ 6

Historical Air Service ...................................................................................... 7

Past Air Service Development Efforts ............................................................ 7

Section 4. Air Service Needs and Deficiencies ............................... 9

Lack of Seat Availability ................................................................................. 9

Impact of Loss of Air Service ....................................................................... 10

High Airfares ................................................................................................ 11

Section 5. Strategic Plan – Air Service ......................................... 12

Project Goals ............................................................................................... 12

Proposed Air Service ................................................................................... 12

Airline Participation ...................................................................................... 13

Market Analysis ............................................................................................ 13

Alternate Plan .............................................................................................. 13

Previous Grant Recipient - New Project and Goals ..................................... 14

Section 6. Strategic Plan – Implementation and Funding ............ 15

Public-Private Partnership............................................................................ 15

Incentive and Support Plan .......................................................................... 16

Strategic Plan Funding ................................................................................. 18

Project Continuation and Sustainability ........................................................ 18

Section 7. Schedule and Monitoring .............................................. 19

Critical Milestones ........................................................................................ 19

Monitoring Program ..................................................................................... 20

Appendix A. Letters of Support
APPLICATION 

UNDER THE 

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COMMUNITY 

AIR 

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WILMINGTON INTERNATIONAL 

AIRPORT

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SECTION 1. APPLICATION 

HIGHLIGHTS

his Small Community Air Service Development Program (SCASDP) grant 

application for the Wilmington International Airport (ILM) meets the criteria of 

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120. New Hanover County Airport Authority, the 

legal sponsor and owner/operator of ILM, is requesting $750,000 in federal 

assistance to implement a $1,175,230 air service initiative. 

The project goal is to improve westbound connections which is a top 

priority of the community. The Strategic Plan, primarily focused on 

nonstop American Airlines service to Chicago O’Hare, will achieve the 

project goals. The proposed Strategic Plan will improve connectivity 

and increase competition at ILM which will reduce airfares and the 

need to drive long distances to alternate airports to access alternate 

air service and competitive fares. 

HIGHER THAN AVERAGE AIRFARES

Over the last 10 years, ILM’s airfares have continued to rise, reaching 

a 10-year high in 2012. ILM’s average domestic fare surpassed the 

average for the state of North Carolina, the Southeast region and the 

national average. In addition, ILM’s fares are higher than surrounding 

airports with similar or higher levels of air service including Charlotte, 

Greensboro, Raleigh/Durham, and Myrtle Beach. 

Since American Airlines left the ILM market in March 2012, airfares to 

top American-competitive ILM destinations have risen significantly, 

with double digit increases in 16 of the top 20 markets. Reinstating 

American’s Chicago O’Hare service is a high priority and will 

provide significantly improved western connections and 

increased competition thereby once again lowering airfares to ILM’s 

top destinations.

The only airport within 150 miles from the ILM catchment area with air service greater 

than ILM is located in Myrtle Beach, SC, which still requires a drive of almost 1.5 

hours. The closest medium hub airport is Raleigh/Durham at 150 miles distant or over 

a two-hour drive. The closest large hub airport is Charlotte which is over 200 miles 

away and approximately a 3.5 hour drive. Excessive drive distances to alternate 

airports along with high airfares are the key determinates of the need for 

improved air service.

T This section addresses: 

 Project goals 

 Description of the 

Strategic Plan 

 Highlights of the grant 

application 

New hub service 

that increases 

westbound 

connecting 

opportunities is a 

top priority of the 

community. 
APPLICATION 

UNDER THE 

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AIR 

SERVICE 

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WILMINGTON INTERNATIONAL 

AIRPORT

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COMMUNITY COST CONTRIBUTION

To support this air service initiative, ILM and the community will fund 

36 percent of the proposed $1,175,230 Strategic Plan. Non-airport 

community revenue sources will fund $203,500 (nearly 20 

percent) of the $1,084,460 cash requirement. This is a very strong 

commitment by the local community to continue to be proactive to 

improve local air service. 

 

PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP

Local businesses and the public-private partnership have the ability to successfully 

implement this project. ILM has partnered with the Air Service Focus Group for 

purposes of air service development. Fourteen private partners comprise the Air 

Service Focus Group in support of this application. ILM and the community are 

committed to the successful development of air service at ILM and have a vested 

interest in the successful outcome of this Strategic Plan. 

MATERIAL BENEFITS

Wilmington’s central East Coast location is located at the mid-point between New 

York and Florida. The large population base has a very prominent business, 

education and tourism economy. The catchment area includes a population of 

approximately 839,733 residents. Within a 50-mile radius of ILM there is a population 

of almost 653,000 expanding to over 1.3 million within a 75-mile radius. 

Wilmington is an economically vibrant and fast-growing city that is drawing residents, 

tourists, and businesses in equal force. There are multiple large local employers in 

the ILM catchment area, several with local corporate headquarters, such as GE 

Nuclear, Pharmaceutical Product Development, Castlebranch, and International 

Paper. International companies such as Wieland, General Electric, DuPont, and 

Corning also have facilities in Wilmington. The film industry has a strong presence in 

Wilmington as the home of EUE Screen Gems Studios, the largest domestic 

television and movie production facility outside of California. 

With the strong business environment, higher education supporting enrollment of over 

13,700 students at University of North Carolina at Wilmington, and more than 1.6 

million visitors annually, the air service improvement plan proposed in this grant 

application will benefit a broad segment of the traveling public, including business, 

educational institutions and tourism. 

USE OF FUNDS IN A TIMELY FASHION

The public-private partnership has a solid schedule and Strategic Plan to ensure 

timely use of the funds. An initial meeting was held with the targeted airline in 

anticipation of this grant application, and the Strategic Plan proposal is 

under consideration.

The greater 

Wilmington area is 

home to numerous 

businesses, 

educational 

institutions and 

tourist destinations 

driving the need for 

improved air 

service. 
APPLICATION 

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AIR 

SERVICE 

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WILMINGTON INTERNATIONAL 

AIRPORT

Page 

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SECTION 2. AIR SERVICE 

ENVIRONMENT

LM is a small-hub, commercial service airport located in New Hanover County in 

southeastern North Carolina. Wilmington’s US East Coast location is located at the 

mid-point between New York and Florida. The large population base has a very 

prominent business, education and tourism economy. This section provides an overview 

of the Wilmington community and its need for additional air service and improved 

connectivity to the west. 

LARGE AND GROWING CATCHMENT AREA 

The primary catchment area for ILM includes eight North Carolina 

counties including New Hanover, Brunswick, Pender, Columbus, 

Bladen, Onslow, Duplin and Sampson. In addition, the catchment 

area includes the northeast section of Horry County in South 

Carolina. The catchment area includes a population of approximately 

839,733 residents (Table 2.1). Within a 50-mile radius of ILM there is 

a population of almost 653,000 expanding to over 1.3 million within a 

75-mile radius (source: ESRI Business Analyst Online). 

From 2012 to 2017, the ILM catchment area population growth is 

projected to be more than double that of the US national average 

(source: ESRI Business Analyst Online) with median household 

income also growing at a greater rate than the national average. Air 

service at ILM must expand to keep pace with this 

growing community. 

PROXIMITY TO OTHER AIRPORTS

The only airport within 150 miles from the ILM catchment area with air 

service greater than ILM is located in Myrtle Beach, SC, which still 

requires a drive of almost 1.5 hours. Table 2.2, next page, provides a 

comparison of the mileage, drive time and weekly flights and seats 

from Wilmington proper. The closest medium hub airport is 

Raleigh/Durham at 150 miles distant or over a two-hour drive. The 

closest large hub airport is Charlotte which is over 200 miles away 

and approximately a 3.5 hour drive. Excessive drive distances to 

alternate airports along with high airfares are the key determinates of 

the need for improved air service. 

I

TABLE 2.1 CATCHMENT AREA POPULATION 

CATCHMENT AREA 

COUNTY POPULATION 

New Hanover 209,234 

Brunswick 112,257 

Pender 54,195 

Columbus 58,098 

Bladen 35,190 

Onslow 183,263 

Duplin 60,033 

Sampson 63,949 

Horry (SC)** 63,514 

Total 839,733 

Source: US Census Bureau; 

Note: ** NE section only 

This section addresses: 

Description of the 

Wilmington community in 

relation to air service to 

demonstrate the benefit of 

the Strategic Plan to a 

broad segment of the 

traveling public.
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TABLE 2.2 DRIVE TIMES TO AIRPORTS FROM WILMINGTON PROPER 

AIRPORT MILEAGE 

DRIVE 

TIME 

WEEKLY (JUL 13) 

FLIGHTS SEATS 

Wilmington, NC (ILM) 4 7 min 171 11,169 

Jacksonville, NC (OAJ) 62 1 hr, 8 min 95 4,825 

Myrtle Beach, SC (MYR) 77 1 hr, 22 min 253 28,197 

Fayetteville, NC (FAY) 89 1 hr, 34 min 142 7,548 

New Bern, NC (EWN) 90 1 hr, 38 min 70 3,422 

Florence, SC (FLO) 113 1 hr, 59 min 39 1,677 

Greenville, NC (PGV) 126 2 hr, 7 min 33 1,572 

Raleigh/Durham, NC (RDU) 150 2 hr, 8 min 1,265 119,999 

Charlotte, NC (CLT) 206 3 hr, 26 min 5,195 521,536 

Greensboro, NC (GSO) 211 3 hr, 9 min 320 23,346 

Source: Microsoft MapPoint 2010; Diio Mi 

STRONG AND DIVERSE ECONOMY

Wilmington is an economically vibrant and fast-growing city that is drawing residents, 

tourists, and businesses in equal force. The International Port of Wilmington, ILM, the 

University of North Carolina, and Cape Fear Community College combine to create a 

proactive business climate. This along with a strong work force, a responsive public 

education system, and an abundance of industrial sites make Greater Wilmington a 

prime business location with strong per capita income. All indicators show that 

Wilmington is not your typical small community and is in need of improved air 

service access. The following subsections discuss local businesses in the community, 

higher education facilities and tourism. 

Local Businesses 

There are multiple large local employers in the ILM catchment area, several with local 

corporate headquarters. Drawn with the high quality of life and strong work force, 

businesses find Wilmington attractive for their corporate offices. Table 2.3 lists a sample 

of the companies and organizations in the Wilmington area that would benefit from new 

nonstop air service at ILM. International companies such as Wieland, General Electric, 

DuPont, and Corning have facilities in Wilmington. 

TABLE 2.3 TOP EMPLOYERS 

COMPANY/ORGANIZATION 

GE Nuclear Headquarters* University of NC - Wilmington 

GE Jet Engine Division Cape Fear Community College 

Pharmaceutical Product Development (PPD)* New Hanover County Schools 

Corning, Inc. aaiPharma 

New Hanover Health Network Castlebranch* 

Screen Gems Studio Louisiana Pacific Corporation 

Duke Energy Progress KoSa 

Verizon VisionAir 

US Military - Camp Lejeune Military Base Chemtex 

New Hanover County Elemetis Chromium LP 

City of Wilmington International Paper*

Note: *Corporate headquarters 

The Wilmington area is a growing community and has today become a regional leader in 

commerce and industry. Home to a diverse economy, the area contains a variety of 

Wilmington receives 

national recognition:

 "One of the Best 

Towns" and "The 

Next Big Thing" by 

Outside Magazine 

 Bloomberg Business 

Week ranked 

Wilmington "The #7 

Most Fun, 

Affordable City." 

 Forbes rated the 

area one of the 15 

best in the country 

for business and 

careers 

 One of the 100 Best 

Arts Towns 

 Best Places to 

Launch a Business 

 Top 10 Recreation 

Cities 
APPLICATION UNDER THE SMALL COMMUNITY AIR SERVICE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

WILMINGTON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

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industry, which demand quality, efficient air service to major business 

cities. From fiber optics and aircraft engines to pharmaceutical testing 

and plastics, the mega movie industry and tourism industry combine 

to create a large base of users and potential users of ILM. 

One of the more notable industries, the film industry, has a strong 

presence in Wilmington. In the 1980s, Hollywood discovered 

Wilmington. Wilmington is the home of EUE Screen Gems Studios, 

the largest domestic television and movie production facility outside of 

California. If you’ve seen Iron Man 3, Revolution, or Dawson’s Creek, 

then chances are, you’ve probably seen parts of Wilmington. These 

listed are only three of about 350 produced in the Wilmington area. 

Their list of clients past and present include CBS, HBO, BET 

Networks, ABC, Warner Brothers Television, and Sony Television 

among others. This 50-acre film and television production complex 

has 10 sound stages, two special effects water tanks and 30,000 

square feet of office space. More than 1,000 world-class crew are 

based in Wilmington. 

Higher Education 

The University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW) is the only 

public university in Southeast North Carolina. UNCW offers 73 bachelor’s degree 

programs and 27 graduate programs with an annual enrollment exceeding 13,700 

students and over 1,800 full-time staff. For the ninth year, UNCW was seventh among 

the top public master’s universities in the South by US News & World Report. Among 

both public and private institutions in the South, UNCW is 20th out of 127 institutions. 

Cape Fear Community College (CFCC) is among the largest of North Carolina's 59 

community colleges. Over 26,000 people attend classes at CFCC every year. CFCC's 

main campus is located in historic downtown Wilmington on the banks of the Cape Fear 

River and a North Campus in northern New Hanover County. The College also offers 

classes in Pender County center in Burgaw and Surf City. 

Tourism 

Long known for its beautiful beaches and miles of protected coastal waterways, 

Wilmington is a family-friendly vacation spot. Its mild climate allows year-round outdoor 

recreation at over 150 regional golf courses, 30 marinas and numerous county and 

state parks. 

The Wilmington area hosts an abundance of artistic and cultural attractions including art 

galleries, dance, gardens, museums, music and theatre. Wilmington is rich in Colonial, 

Revolutionary, and Civil War history. Major attractions include the USS North Carolina, a 

World War II battleship that won 15 stars for distinguished service. Located on the Cape 

Fear River’s west bank, the battleship draws approximately 250,000 visitors per year. 

Wilmington in total attracts approximately 1.6 million visitors annually. 
APPLICATION 

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AIR 

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DEVELOPMENT 

PROGRAM

WILMINGTON INTERNATIONAL 

AIRPORT

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SECTION 3. AIR SERVICE –

EXISTING/HISTORICAL

his section provides an overview of ILM’s existing air service. Carriers providing 

service, service frequency, nonstop destinations offered, and equipment types 

are included in the discussion. A summary of historical air service is also included 

with destinations, traffic levels, and service providers. A description of air service 

development efforts concludes the section. 

EXISTING AIR SERVICE

ILM is served by Delta Air Lines to two nonstop destinations, Atlanta 

and New York LaGuardia, and US Airways to three nonstop 

destinations, Charlotte, Philadelphia, and Washington National. While 

ILM is fortunate to have service to five destinations, historically air 

service has provided much greater access to the central and western 

US. There are an average of 170 weekly flights and 11,554 seats 

(Table 3.1). 

Over the next 12 months, ILM’s service is expected to decline. Delta 

is scheduled to reduce weekly departures to Atlanta to as low as 34 

weekly departures, down from 48 in 

July. Delta’s New York LaGuardia 

service also declines to as low as 

14 weekly departures, down from 

22. US Airways’ service 

remains consistent. While much of 

Delta’s reduced departures reflect 

seasonal fluctuations, Delta’s ILM 

departures drop by 32 percent until 

March 2014. 

ILM’s future Delta service is in 

transition. ILM’s service is provided by jet equipment, predominately with the 50-seat 

Canadair Regional Jet 200 (CRJ-200) aircraft that are being phased out of most airline 

fleets, particularly Delta. Forty-five percent of ILM’s flights are operated with the CRJ200. Over half of those are flights operated by Delta. In June 2012, Delta and its regional 

jet pilot union approved a contract that capped the number of 50-seat regional jets to just 

125; this reduced the fleet from 343 at that time. While some of the reduction will be 

back-filled with the 70- or 90-seat regional jets, there is a shortage of these aircraft in 

Delta’s fleet. It is likely that many smaller markets, currently served with the 50-seat 

regional jet, will either be eliminated or frequency of service will be reduced. This makes 

obtaining new, alternative air service very important in the ILM market. 

T

TABLE 3.1 EXISTING AIR SERVICE 

NONSTOP 

DESTINATION 

MARKETING 

CARRIER AIRCRAFT 

WEEKLY 

DEPARTURES 

WEEKLY 

SEATS 

Atlanta, GA (ATL) Delta CRJ 200/ 

Airbus A319 48 2,932 

Charlotte, NC (CLT) US Airways 

CRJ 200/ 

CRJ 900/ 

Airbus A319 

63 5,294 

New York, NY (LGA) Delta ERJ/CRJ 700 22 1,244 

Philadelphia, PA (PHL) US Airways ERJ 170/ERJ 

175/CRJ 200 23 1,384 

Washington, DC (DCA) US Airways CRJ 200 14 700 

Total 170 11,554 

Source: Diio Mi, July 2013 

This section addresses: 

 Description of existing 

air service 

 Synopsis of historical 

air service 

 Description of air 

service development 

efforts 
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HISTORICAL AIR SERVICE

Over the past 10 years, ILM has been fortunate to experience an increase in total 

departures and seats reaching a 10-year high in 2013 (Table 3.2). However, the number 

of airlines serving the market and the number of destinations have decreased. In 2011, 

four airlines served ILM: Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and US Airways. 

Since then both Allegiant and American have left the market leaving only two 

carriers remaining. While the loss of two air carriers has considerably reduced 

competition in the market, ILM also lost service to three destinations including Chicago 

O’Hare, Cincinnati, and Orlando Sanford. The most detrimental loss was American’s 

service to Chicago. The Chicago O’Hare hub provided significant additional 

connecting opportunities to the ILM market as well as nonstop service to their 

fourth highest passenger market (Chicago), the number one market without 

nonstop service.

TABLE 3.2 HISTORICAL DESTINATIONS AND SERVICE PROVIDERS 

DESTINATION AIRLINE ITEM 

MONTH OF JULY - WEEKLY DEPARTURES/SEATS 

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 

Atlanta, GA Delta Dept 41 35 34 47 40 60 45 45 45 48 

Seats 2,050 1,750 1,700 2,350 2,140 3,000 2,250 2,250 2,250 2,932 

Charlotte-Douglas, NC US Airways Dept 52 57 58 63 63 56 63 63 63 63 

Seats 4,657 6,322 5,040 5,739 5,518 4,516 5,098 4,710 4,803 5,294 

Chicago, IL (ORD) American Dept 14 

Seats 616 

Cincinnati, OH Delta Dept 14 7 7 

Seats 700 350 350 

New York, NY (LGA) 

Delta Dept 14 22 

Seats 700 1,244 

US Airways Dept 12 21 20 20 27 21 20 18 

Seats 600 1,050 1,000 1,000 1,350 1,050 1,000 900 

Orlando, FL (SFB) Allegiant Dept 2 2 2 2 2 

Seats 300 300 300 300 300 

Philadelphia, PA US Airways Dept 21 17 26 28 22 24 23 24 23 

Seats 1,050 850 1,300 1,652 1,282 1,660 1,150 1,200 1,384 

Washington, DC (DCA) US Airways Dept 2 2 2 3 14 

Seats 74 100 100 150 700 

Average weekly departures 107 150 129 163 167 161 154 167 151 170 

Average weekly seats 7,381 10,972 8,590 10,739 11,310 10,148 10,308 10,026 9,403 11,554

Source: Diio Mi 

PAST AIR SERVICE DEVELOPMENT EFFORTS 

ILM and its community supporters have been proactive in attempts to maintain and 

improve air service. Each year ILM staff makes numerous proposals to airlines who 

could successfully serve the ILM market. This strategy includes frequent follow-up and 

communication to keep potential air carriers informed on ILM’s market as well as provide 

continuous information that could affect their decision to begin service. 

Over the past five years ILM has met with American and United at their offices twice 

each and attended several air service development conferences including both the 

Network USA and ACI-NA JumpStart Air Service Development conferences where they 

met with multiple airlines (including Aero Mexico, Air Canada, Air Tran, Allegiant, 
APPLICATION 

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American, Cayman Airways, Continental, Delta, Gulfstream, Jet Blue, People Express, 

Southwest, Spirit, Sun Country, Trans States Airlines, United, US Airways, and Vision 

Air). Additionally, ILM has attended the Allegiant Conference and met with incumbent 

airlines at their corporate offices. At JumpStart 2013, ILM met with American, JetBlue 

Airways, Silver Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, and US Airways. Several 

airlines expressed interest in expanding service from ILM including American that 

specifically expressed interest in this Strategic Plan. This grant application is one more 

example of a pro-active community fully engaged in its air service development efforts.
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SECTION 4. AIR SERVICE NEEDS 

AND DEFICIENCIES

he Air Service Needs and Deficiencies section identifies the major 

origin/destination markets that are not served adequately and the high fare levels 

in the ILM market. This section provides a detailed analysis to demonstrate that 

ILM is underserved and overpriced. 

LACK OF SEAT AVAILABILITY

In 2012, ILM’s load factors to markets providing western connectivity were very high. 

While Washington National (DCA) and New York LaGuardia (LGA) are valued nonstop 

markets for ILM travelers, the hubs primarily provide point-to-point service as well as 

limited international connectivity. The Atlanta (ATL), Charlotte (CLT) and Philadelphia 

(PHL) hubs provide the primary western connectivity today. 

Table 4.1 shows the average load factors by month from January through December 

2012. The hubs that provide western connectivity are highlighted for reference. As shown 

in the table, load factors were 80 percent or greater in 10 of the 12 months at Atlanta, 

and nine months at Charlotte and Philadelphia, exceeding 90 percent, particularly in the 

Atlanta market, in many of the 12 months. With ILM’s existing service reaching load 

factors as high as 94 percent in some months, seat availability at competitive prices at 

peak times is frequently a major problem. 

As stated in the previous section, over half of ILM’s service is provided on smaller 

regional jets with 50 seats or less. High load factors on aircraft of this size mean there 

are few if any seats available, especially on the higher demand morning flights. This 

suggests that rejected demand occurs on many flights forcing ridership to 

alternate airports. 

TABLE 4.1 ILM AVERAGE LOAD FACTORS BY MARKET 

MONTH 

LOAD FACTOR 

ATL CLT DCA LGA ORD PHL SFB 

Jan-12 76 63 26 45 61 66 86 

Feb-12 81 65 36 50 66 71 91 

Mar-12 90 71 58 66 80 79 91 

Apr-12 94 84 69 81 95 87 91 

May-12 93 80 57 77 83 81 

Jun-12 94 84 70 78 86 86 

Jul-12 93 89 76 83 89 92 

Aug-12 93 95 88 84 93 90 

Sep-12 86 85 60 64 88 

Oct-12 84 83 50 62 88 81 

Nov-12 84 85 63 54 88 75 

Dec-12 79 83 65 55 82 83 

Source: Diio Mi 

T This section addresses: 

Description of the 

Wilmington community’s air 

service needs and 

deficiencies. 
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These high load factors indicate there is a significant need for 

improved connectivity to western destinations. The option of 

connecting via an additional hub for westbound travel would greatly 

improve the quality of catchment area air service and aid economic 

and market development. 

IMPACT OF LOSS OF AIR SERVICE

American Airlines’ served the ILM market to/from Chicago O’Hare 

from July 2011 to March 2012. With only nine months in the market, 

the American Chicago O’Hare service did not have sufficient 

opportunity to mature. However, within that short timeframe, American had a significant 

impact. Table 4.2 shows the number of passengers American carried one-way over the 

nine-month period as well as total ILM passengers and the fare. A comparison is 

provided to the nine-month period following American’s departure from the ILM market. 

In many of the top 20 American-ILM markets, passengers decreased by double digits 

following American’s departure. In addition, average fares rose dramatically in many 

markets with double digit increases in 16 of the 20 markets. 

TABLE 4.2 IMPACT OF AMERICAN AIRLINES' CHICAGO SERVICE (NON-DIRECTIONAL)

AA-ILM 

RANK 

TOP AA-ILM 

MARKET 

AA-ORD 

SERVICE 

POST-AA 

ORD SERVICE 

% 

CHANGE 

AA 

PAX 

TOTAL 

PAX FARE 

TOTAL 

PAX FARE PAX FARE 

1 Chicago, IL (ORD) 7,365 12,094 160 9,370 173 (23) 8 

2 Los Angeles, CA 1,146 7,824 239 7,867 291 1 22 

3 Dallas, TX (DFW) 977 7,232 173 6,475 193 (10) 12 

4 San Francisco, CA 645 5,540 242 5,778 267 4 10 

5 Phoenix, AZ (PHX) 451 3,995 184 3,973 205 (1) 11 

6 Denver, CO 418 6,161 161 6,933 186 13 15 

7 Seattle, WA 389 2,909 237 3,269 272 12 15 

8 San Diego, CA 381 3,386 240 3,423 266 1 11 

9 St. Louis, MO 289 3,283 148 3,633 164 11 11 

10 Minneapolis, MN 252 3,956 187 3,926 196 (1) 4 

11 Las Vegas, NV 241 4,647 212 4,327 239 (7) 13 

12 San Jose, CA 212 758 279 484 333 (36) 19 

13 London, UK (LHR) 202 539 503 632 584 17 16 

14 Tucson, AZ 189 741 247 479 312 (35) 27 

15 Austin, TX 182 2,341 184 2,015 223 (14) 21 

16 Grand Rapids, MI 179 490 209 389 287 (21) 37 

17 Reno, NV 178 546 251 531 328 (3) 31 

18 Madison, WI 175 508 290 811 332 60 15 

19 Kansas City, MO 172 2,979 162 3,429 177 15 9 

20 Oklahoma City, OK 165 908 267 678 286 (25) 7 

Nonstop service to a connecting city such as Chicago or Dallas will once again provide 

the westbound connections needed by the community as well as provide additional 

competition in the marketplace to bring down the fares in the top markets. 

Following 

American’s 

departure from the 

ILM market, 

average fares have 

risen dramatically in 

many markets with 

double digit 

increases in 16 of 

the 20 markets.
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HIGH AIRFARES

The Order Soliciting Community Proposals indicated that the US Department of 

Transportation (DOT) will compare the local community’s airfares to the national average 

airfares for all communities using the BTS database. The BTS report for calendar year 

2012 is the source for Diio Mi airfares shown in the following table. 

Table 4.3 provides a comparison to surrounding airports with a similar level of air service 

in addition to the state of North Carolina average, Southeast region average, and US 

average. In some cases, ILM has a significant fare discrepancy with other surrounding 

airports. ILM’s average domestic fare also exceeds the state, region and 

national averages. 

TABLE 4.3 AVERAGE ONE-WAY FARE PAID 

 

AVERAGE DOMESTIC FARE ILM $ 

2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 DIFF 

ILM $157 $138 $140 $177 $162 $166 $146 $155 $175 $188 

Charlotte-Douglas, NC $187 $172 $159 $157 $158 $172 $149 $165 $179 $186 $2 

Greensboro, NC $136 $137 $142 $174 $162 $165 $151 $165 $171 $182 $6 

Raleigh/Durham, NC $126 $118 $120 $139 $134 $141 $126 $140 $156 $164 $24 

Myrtle Beach, SC $107 $109 $121 $137 $127 $130 $115 $112 $115 $121 $67 

North Carolina $150 $142 $140 $155 $152 $161 $143 $157 $171 $180 $8 

Southeast Region $131 $127 $130 $144 $143 $150 $137 $148 $161 $167 $21 

US $134 $131 $135 $147 $147 $157 $143 $157 $170 $176 $12 

Source: Diio Mi; Domestic only 
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SECTION 5. STRATEGIC PLAN –

AIR SERVICE

he Strategic Plan proposed by ILM will achieve the community’s goals and help to 

alleviate the air service deficiencies of this community. This Strategic Plan section 

provides a detailed description of the goals of the project and a primary and 

alternate plan for attaining those goals. As a previous grant recipient (consortium 

member), this application is a new project with different goals than the previous project. 

PROJECT GOALS

The project goal is to improve connections to westbound markets to adequately serve 

the Wilmington area. By improving connections to the west, which is ILM’s top air service 

deficiency, the following will be achieved: 

 Higher than average airfares will be reduced and more in line with other markets 

with additional capacity and competition in the marketplace. 

 The need to drive long distances to use alternate airports to access a higher level of 

air service and competitive fares will be mitigated. 

 Seat availability will be opened up on high load factor flights for additional 

passengers in high demand markets. 

PROPOSED AIR SERVICE

With existing hub service with western 

connections experiencing high loads for 

most of the year, ILM’s primary air service 

need is to a destination offering connecting 

opportunities to the west, specifically 

Chicago O’Hare (Exhibit 5.1). Increasing 

fares since American Airlines ceased 

service to Chicago O’Hare support the 

need for this air service initiative. 

Reinstatement of American’s Chicago 

O’Hare service would provide ILM with 

improved air service access to top markets 

and new unique one-stop connections 

(including Kalamazoo, MI; Dubuque, IA; 

Fargo, ND; Sioux Falls, SD; Helsinki, 

Finland; Beijing, China; Shanghai, China; 

Reno, NV and others). This plan will 

achieve the project goals by offering more 

western connecting service options and 

competition to top markets. 

T This section addresses: 

 A Strategic Plan for 

meeting ILM’s air 

service needs and 

deficiencies 

 Alternate plan to meet 

the goals 

EXHIBIT 5.1 PROPOSED AIR SERVICE 
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AIRLINE PARTICIPATION

Recently, members of the public-private partnership (Table 6.1, page 15) met with 

American Airlines regarding reinstatement of Chicago O’Hare service. Discussions with 

American have been positive. They agreed that the previous service was cancelled too 

early and should have been given more opportunity to mature and are interested in reentering the market. However, based on preliminary discussions, the community support 

package proposed in the Strategic Plan is critical in the airline’s decision to serve the 

Chicago O’Hare market. American to Chicago O’Hare would meet the goals of this 

SCASDP grant application and is the highest priority of the community. 

MARKET ANALYSIS

The ILM market responded strongly to American’s Chicago O’Hare service. Table 5.1

shows the number of departures, passengers carried, seats, and load factor for the nine 

months that American served the market. While load factors dipped during the lowseason months of January and February like most markets, loads were strong during the 

other seven months American served ILM. American served 18,116 passengers each 

way during the nine-month period, a total of 36,232 origin and destination passengers. It 

is anticipated with current service levels and high loads in other hub markets with 

western connectivity, the market will react even stronger to new hub service in 

the future.

TABLE 5.1 AMERICAN AIRLINES PERFORMANCE AT ILM 

MONTH DEPARTURES PASSENGERS SEATS 

LOAD 

FACTOR 

2011-07 57 2,278 2,559 89 

2011-08 58 2,223 2,570 86 

2011-09 59 2,113 2,604 81 

2011-10 61 2,209 2,704 82 

2011-11 58 1,970 2,554 77 

2011-12 58 1,998 2,552 78 

2012-01 58 1,553 2,552 61 

2012-02 55 1,594 2,420 66 

2012-03 60 2,118 2,640 80 

2012-04 2 63 66 95 

Total 524 18,116 23,221 78 

Source: Diio Mi; Non-directional 

ALTERNATE PLAN

While the public-private partnership was encouraged by discussions with American, if 

ILM fails to obtain Chicago O’Hare service in a reasonable time period, alternate carriers 

will be approached for westbound connecting service. Alternate service that would fulfill 

the goals of this grant application include but are not limited to the following: United 

Airlines’ Chicago O’Hare, American Airlines’ Dallas-Fort Worth, United Houston, and 

JetBlue Boston service to name a few. Consistent with the intent of the air service 

initiative proposed, obtaining nonstop service to an alternate connecting airport with 

numerous western connecting opportunities and competitive airfares is the best option 

for ILM catchment area passengers. 

American Airlines is 

interested in reentering the ILM 

market.
APPLICATION UNDER THE SMALL COMMUNITY AIR SERVICE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

WILMINGTON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

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PREVIOUS GRANT RECIPIENT -NEW PROJECT AND GOALS

In 2003, the US DOT awarded the State of North Carolina DOT a 

SCASDP grant. ILM participated as one of six consortium members 

in North Carolina. The goal of the 2003 grant was to fund the creation 

of a network of regional routes from Raleigh-Durham to provide 

improved air service and better access to the nation’s air 

transportation network. 

Though ILM was a participant of the previous grant application, ILM 

did not receive any financial assistance or beneficial results from the 

grant award and is now applying individually as a nonconsortium entity. 

Where the previous application’s goals were specific in nature by 

concentrating on intra-North Carolina service, this application’s goals 

focus specifically on improving westbound connections with a 

concentration on Chicago O’Hare International Airport. As 

demonstrated, this application qualifies as a new project and meets 

the requirements of the SCASDP. 
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SECTION 6. STRATEGIC PLAN –

IMPLEMENTATION AND FUNDING

his section, Strategic Plan - Implementation and Funding, provides the detailed 

incentive and support plan required to implement the Strategic Plan. A legal 

sponsor responsible for administering the program has been designated, and a 

public-private partnership has been formed to actively participate in implementing the 

proposed project. In addition, this section identifies self-sufficiency of the service as an 

integral part of the community’s goals and provides a description of the community’s plan 

to continue with the project if it is not self-sustaining after the grant award expires. A 

detailed description of the funding necessary for implementation of the Strategic Plan, 

including federal and non-federal contributions, is included. 

PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP

New Hanover County Airport Authority has been designated as 

the sponsor of this grant application. For the purpose of this 

application, New Hanover County Airport Authority/ILM and the 

Air Service Focus Group have formed a public-private 

partnership (refer to community support letters in Appendix A). 

Collectively, the partnership is committed to completing the 

Strategic Plan outlined herein. 

The following private entities (i.e. the Air Service Focus Group) have partnered with the 

New Hanover County Airport Authority in support of this application: 

 Branch Banking and Trust 

Company (BB&T) 

 Brunswick County Economic 

Development Commission 

 Castle Branch, Inc. 

 City of Wilmington 

 Eastern Aviation Fuels, Inc. 

 Monteith Construction Corp. 

 New Hanover County 

 New Hanover Regional Medical 

Center 

 Pharmaceutical Product 

Development, LLC 

 Talbert & Bright 

 University of North Carolina at 

Wilmington 

 Wilmington Business Development 

 Wilmington Chamber of Commerce 

 Wilmington Health

All partners in the public-private partnership will be fully involved in the execution of the 

Strategic Plan (Table 6.1). New Hanover County Airport Authority/ILM will execute all 

federal grant offers, process all associated reimbursement requests, oversee grant 

administration and administer the revenue guarantee. The Air Service Focus Group will 

be responsible for overseeing the marketing campaign. Together these partners form a 

team committed to improving air service at ILM and seeing this Strategic Plan through 

to completion. 

T

TABLE 6.1 PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNER ROLES 

PUBLIC-PRIVATE 

PARTNER ROLE 

New Hanover County 

Airport Authority/ILM 

Grant and revenue 

guarantee administration, 

marketing program 

Air Service Focus Group Assist with the marketing 

program 

This section addresses: 

 Description of the 

public-private 

partnership 

 Designation of a legal 

sponsor 

 Funding necessary for 

implementation of the 

Strategic Plan 

 Sustainability of the 

project 

New Hanover 

County Airport 

Authority/ILM and 

the Air Service 

Focus Group have 

formed a publicprivate partnership.
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INCENTIVE AND SUPPORT PLAN

The current industry status filled with recent 

and ongoing airline mergers and 

consolidation, limited fleet availability, 

volatile fuel prices and an uncertain 

economy is challenging for many 

communities like Wilmington. These 

obstacles work against new service and 

extend the time it takes for new or increased 

service to gain profitability. Accordingly, 

airlines are cautious and highly risk adverse 

requiring communities to partner with them 

to reduce economic uncertainty. In today’s 

industry, community risk mitigation programs 

have become an expectation. To be 

effective, airline support packages must be 

structured to address the realities of today’s 

industry and ensure that investments made 

are quick to respond. This Strategic Plan is 

structured to address today’s 

industry realities. 

The public-private partnership proposes an airline incentive program that has been 

tested and proved to be successful. To reduce the breakeven period and offset the 

economic risk during start-up, the public-private partnership proposes the following 

incentives (Exhibit 6.1): 

 Revenue guarantee: reduce airline economic risk 

 New service marketing campaign: create improved service awareness 

 Landing fee waivers: reduce start-up costs 

Revenue Guarantee 

ILM is competing with other markets across the country for very limited resources. 

Without a revenue guarantee to cover some of the airlines economic risk, ILM has little 

chance of becoming one of the targeted carrier’s priority markets. To reduce airline risk 

and provide incentive to potential airlines to initiate nonstop service to Chicago O’Hare or 

another market, this Strategic Plan includes an airline revenue guarantee as part of the 

community support package. Based on feedback from the airlines and examples of other 

incentives carriers have recently received for new, small market start-up, it is anticipated 

that a nearly $1 million airline revenue guarantee is needed to be considered for Chicago 

O’Hare or other priority service. Exact terms of the airline revenue guarantee agreement 

are subject to further discussions and negotiation. 

To reduce airline 

risk and provide 

incentive to provide 

new nonstop, highpriority service, this 

Strategic Plan 

includes an airline 

revenue guarantee.

EXHIBIT 6.1 INCENTIVE AND 

SUPPORT PLAN
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Marketing Campaign 

A complete marketing/advertising plan will be developed prior to any 

expenditure of marketing dollars. This plan will be specifically tailored 

to the needs and support of new service with improved 

western connectivity. 

The marketing plan will be structured for a 12-month program and will 

focus on public awareness of the new service. However, a permanent 

marketing program will be in place, meaning that existing efforts will 

continue in an expanded and enhanced manner past the grant period. 

Marketing service ramp-up will emphasize how the new service will make air travel more 

convenient, less time-consuming, and less costly, while providing more direct access to 

primary western destinations. In addition, there will be a more general awareness 

campaign on the issues of supporting local air service, already underway. This campaign 

will become a permanent part of the operation of ILM. 

MARKETING MESSAGES: 

Key marketing messages will emphasize the features and benefits of the proposed 

service to the identified audiences. Messages will focus on the following: 

 Convenience: The new service will get passengers to key western destinations 

with more convenience. 

 Cost effective: The new service will reduce the cost of travel to key 

western destinations. 

 Airline name and aircraft type: The new service is provided by a name brand 

airline and larger aircraft.

TARGET AUDIENCE 

The target audience for the new air service is a combination of business travel and 

leisure travel. For the business market, the target audience can best be identified as 

follows: direct to consumer; corporate/government account; and travel agency. For the 

leisure market, the target audience is: direct to consumer; tour operator/consolidator; and 

travel agency. 

MARKETING SCHEDULE 

Marketing is planned to begin at least 60 days prior to the initiation of service. The initial 

program will focus on the target audience, solidify travel agent interest, schedule 

meetings and presentations to advise local area businesses of service and schedule, 

and begin the print and radio advertisements. In addition, a welcoming celebration will be 

held at ILM to herald the arrival of the first aircraft of the new service. This will be a 

heavily publicized public event that will draw significant local coverage. It is expected that 

a significant share of the budget will be expended in the first 60 days. However, the total 

advertising and promotion program is planned for 12 months. Efforts to secure donations 

and other support for marketing will be ongoing. 

Marketing service 

ramp-up will 

emphasize how the 

new service will 

make air travel more 

convenient, less 

time-consuming, 

and less costly.
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FUNDING 

A partnership agreement with local media outlets has been established. This $111,300 

campaign will be funded by non-airport sources ($3,500 cash and $7,800 in-kind) and 

ILM ($100,000 cash). 

Fee Waivers 

The air service support program includes a landing fee waiver. As part of ILM’s standard 

rates and charges, signatory airlines will be charged a landing fee assessed at $1.96 per 

1,000 pounds of gross landed weight. ILM will waive landing fees for the first 12 months 

for new service. Landing fees for the first 12 months are estimated at $72,970 based on 

two daily flights with the Canadair Regional Jet 200. The landing fee waiver may vary 

depending on aircraft type used, the number of roundtrips, and final airline negotiations. 

STRATEGIC PLAN FUNDING

The public-private partnership is requesting US DOT assistance in funding 64 percent, or 

$750,000, of the Strategic Plan. Specifically, US DOT funding will be used to fund a 

portion of the airline revenue guarantee. All other elements including the marketing 

campaign, fee waivers, Strategic Plan monitoring and airline meetings will be funded by 

the airport and the community. 

Table 6.2 provides the Strategic 

Plan budget by element and 

sources of funding. ILM and the 

community will fund 36 percent of 

the total proposed air service 

program. Non-airport sources will 

fund nearly 20 percent of the 

cash requirement and 18 percent 

of the total program including inkind services. 

PROJECT CONTINUATION AND SUSTAINABILITY

Based on a strong marketing campaign for promoting Chicago O’Hare or other qualifying 

connecting service, it is anticipated that the new service will be self-sustaining after the 

start-up period which can take up to a year. However, a leading cause of service failure 

is lack of awareness in the community. The public-private partnership will fund an 

additional $100,000 marketing campaign if at the end of the first year of service the 

market average load factor for the 12-month period averaged less than 75 percent. The 

public-private partnership and the Wilmington business community are committed to the 

success of this project, have a vested interest in the outcome of this Strategic Plan, and 

understand the difficulties associated with profitably operating air service. 

TABLE 6.2 STRATEGIC PLAN BUDGET 

DESCRIPTION 

FUNDING SOURCE 

TOTAL 

US DOT AIRPORT NON-AIRPORT 

CASH CASH IN-KIND CASH IN-KIND

Airline incentive program: 

 Revenue guarantee $750,000 $200,000 $950,000 

 Marketing campaign $100,000 $3,500 $7,800 $111,300 

 Fee waivers $72,970 $72,970 

Strategic Plan monitoring $22,660 $22,660 

Airline meeting $8,300 $8,300 

Program administration $5,000 $5,000 $10,000 

Total $750,000 $130,960 $77,970 $203,500 $12,800 $1,175,230 

Percent of total project 64% 11% 7% 17% 1% 100% 

Percent of cash contribution 69% 12% N/A 19% N/A 100% 
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SECTION 7. SCHEDULE AND 

MONITORING

he public-private partnership established for this Strategic Plan has developed 

a realistic timetable to achieve the goals of this proposal. This section provides 

critical milestones to be achieved by the public-private partnership. A 

monitoring program is also provided to track the progress of the project. 

CRITICAL MILESTONES

The following milestones are proposed to track the progress of this air service 

initiative. The timeline is highly dependent on the date of the US DOT’s grant award 

and the service start date. 

Marketing Campaign Development/Initiation 

January 2014: Development of the marketing campaign will be completed in 

January/February 2014 in order to begin the marketing campaign 60 days prior to 

new service initiation. Development of the marketing campaign is dependent on air 

service announcement and start-up. It is anticipated that the marketing campaign will 

begin by April 1, 2014, and continue throughout the first year of new service. 

Service Improvement Initiation 

June 2014: The service start date is the critical date for the rest of the Strategic Plan. 

It is anticipated that American will begin nonstop Chicago O’Hare service by June 

2014. Air service initiation is dependent on airline route planning and availability 

of aircraft. 

 

Alternate Plan 

June 2014: If American has not committed to nonstop Chicago O’Hare service by 

June 1, 2014, ILM will contact alternate carriers that would meet the goals of this 

grant application. United Airlines service to Chicago O’Hare, American service to 

Dallas-Fort Worth, United service to Houston, or JetBlue service to Boston are the top 

priorities following nonstop American Chicago O’Hare service to provide the 

westbound connections needed by the community. 

End of First Year of Service 

May 2015: At the end of the first year of service, the revenue guarantee will be 

calculated based on the terms of the agreement. If the service start date changes due 

T This section addresses: 

 How the community will 

monitor the progress of 

the project 

 The plan/schedule for 

timely completion of 

the project 

It is anticipated that 

American will begin 

Chicago O’Hare 

service by June 

2014.
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to airline circumstances and/or equipment availability, the revenue guarantee contract 

term will change accordingly. 

May 2015: If the load factor for the first 12 months of service does not reach an 

average of 75 percent, ILM will invest $100,000 in supplementary marketing for an 

additional 12 months to help the service reach the potential passenger levels required 

for carrier success. 

MONITORING PROGRAM

The monitoring program proposed is aggressive and comprehensive. The monitoring 

program includes: service performance tracking, assessing the effectiveness of the 

marketing campaign, and determining the impact of the service on retention of 

catchment area passengers at ILM. 

The following will be completed: 

 Review aircraft departures, enplaned passengers and load factors on a monthly 

basis and route unit revenue performance on a quarterly basis. Airport data, US 

DOT airline reported data and data obtained directly from the airline will be used. 

 Average airfares will be reviewed on a quarterly basis and compared and 

evaluated to prior quarters. Published airfares will also be tracked via one of the 

Global Distribution/Computer Reservations Systems (GDS/CRS) or through 

airline web sites. 

 A retention/diversion study will be performed to determine changes in passenger 

retention/diversion after the first 12 months of service. By comparing post-service 

improvement retention levels to pre-service retention levels, the study will 

determine the impact of the air service improvements on retention/diversion 

at ILM. 
APPLICATION 

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WILMINGTON INTERNATIONAL 

AIRPORT

APPENDIX A. LETTERS OF 

SUPPORT

ppendix A includes letters of support for ILM’s application to the US DOT to 

increase westbound connecting opportunities. Support letters were submitted 

by participants in the public-private partnership, government officials and 

members of the Wilmington area. The letters of support are included on the following 

pages of this Appendix A and are listed below. 

Public-Private Partnership

New Hanover County Airport Authority (refer to cover letter) 

Air Service Focus Group: 

Branch Banking and Trust Company (BB&T) 

Brunswick County Economic Development Commission 

Castle Branch, Inc. 

City of Wilmington, Mayor Bill Saffo 

Eastern Aviation Fuels, Inc. 

Monteith Construction Corp. 

New Hanover County, Board of Commissioners 

New Hanover Regional Medical Center 

Pharmaceutical Product Development, LLC 

Talbert & Bright 

University of North Carolina Wilmington 

Wilmington Business Development 

Wilmington Chamber of Commerce 

Wilmington Health 

Government

North Carolina General Assembly, Representative Rick Catlin 

North Carolina General Assembly, Representative Susi Hamilton 

State of North Carolina, Department of Transportation 

Businesses and Organizations

4 Seasons Site & Demo, Inc. 

All Kinds of Stuff, LLC 

Arts Council of Wilmington 

AT&T 

Atlantic Dermatology Associates, PA 

Barker Jones & Co. 

Barnhill Contracting Company 

Britt Law Firm 

Bullock LLC dba The Cotton Exchange 

Cape Fear Community College 

A This section addresses: 

Letters of support from 

members of the publicprivate partnership, the 

local business community 

and city/county 

government. 
APPLICATION UNDER THE SMALL COMMUNITY AIR SERVICE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

WILMINGTON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Businesses and Organizations (Cont.)

Cape Fear Literacy Council 

Cape Fear Products, Inc. 

Carolinas Cement Company, LLC 

CATLIN Engineers & Scientists 

Cavanaugh & Associates, PA 

Copley Investment Management, LLC 

Corbet Package Company 

Creative Training Concepts, International 

DJ Investments, Inc. 

Duke Energy 

Enterprise Holdings 

Evergreen Clearing, Inc. 

FASTSIGNS Wilmington 

First Citizens Bank 

Fourth Day Advertising 

Gateway Bank Mortgage, Inc. 

GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy 

Goodrich Architecture, PA 

Gregory Construction Company 

Hertz Corporation 

Intracoastal Angler 

Intracoastal Realty Corporation 

John Izzo, CPA 

Julia’s Florist 

Ken Weeden & Associates, Inc. 

Larry Bell Real Estate 

Legacy Wealth Strategies 

Businesses and Organizations (Cont.) 

LS3P Architects 

LS3P Associates, Ltd. 

McColl & Associates, Inc. 

New Hanover County Tourism 

Development Authority 

New River Pottery 

NewBridge Bank 

North Carolina Aquarium 

OpinionLab, Inc. 

Paramounte Engineering, Inc. 

PNC Bank 

Southern Metals Recycling, Inc. 

Star News Media 

Summer Sands Suites 

The Davis Community 

The Lakes Country Club 

Thomas Construction Group 

Thomson, Corder & Co. 

Tidewater Group, Inc. 

Totally Travel, LLC 

UBS Financial Services, Inc. 

Wilmington Downtown, Inc. 

Wilmington Regional Film Commission 

Wilmington Rotary Club 

Wilmington Symphony Orchestra 

Wilmington Today 

WILM-TV 
















July 18, 2013 

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development Program 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310 

Washington, DC 20590 

Subject: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application 

 Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

 Wilmington, North Carolina 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

 I write to you in strong support of the SCASD grant application from the Wilmington International Airport 

(ILM). Enhancing access to the marketplace through local air service is vitally important to the business community in 

the Southeast region. The proposed air service improvements would expand access to the national transportation system 

which in turn would allow us the opportunity to extend our local business reach outward. In today’s national and 

international marketplace it is imperative for a small hub airport like ILM to remain competitive, and obtaining this grant 

would allow us to make great strides forward. 

 I appreciate all consideration of this application and will be happy to answer any questions the Review Board 

may have. Please call my office at 910-733-5830 if you would like to discuss my support in more detail. 

Sincerely, 

Representative Rick Catlin 

District 20, New Hanover County 

North Carolina House of Representatives 

Raleigh, North Carolina 27603 

919-733-5830
(Earolma

REPRESENTATIVE SUSI H. HAMILTON

NEW HANOVER AND BRUNSWICK COUNTIES - ISTH DISTRICT

OFFICE ADDRESS:

TELEPHONE:

EMAIL:

1313 LEGISLATIVE BUILDING

1 6 WEST JONES STREET

RALEIGH, NC 276O1-1O96

(919) 733-5754

(919) 733-2599 FAX

susi.hamilton@ncleg.net

July 22, 2013

COMMITTEES:

PUBLIC UTILITIES, VICE CHAIR

COMMERCE AND JOB DEVELOPMENT

ENVIRONMENT

FINANCE

INSURANCE

RULES

TRANSPORTATION

Ms. Brooke Chapman, Associate Director

Small Community Air Service Development Program

U.S. Department of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310

Washington, DC 20590

Subject: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120

Wilmington, North Carolina

Dear Ms. Chapman:

I am of the understanding that the Wilmington International Airport (ILM) is in the process of applying for

a Small Community Air Service Development Grant (SCASDP) with the U.S. Department of

Transportation.

If their application for a grant is accepted, the airport will see major improvements in its air service

development efforts as well as a significant increase in its ability to access the national transportation

system. This improved access will be beneficial to the entire region, including the local business

community.

The goal of the SCASDP is to provide communities that depend on small hub airports like ILM with

financial assistance for improving air service delivery to those areas. For this reason, I am writing this

letter of support in hopes that the US Department of Transportation will give serious consideration to the

merits of ILM Airport and approve its application for SCASDP funding.

Please feel free to contact me should you have any questions regarding this letter.

Respectfully,

~&MAj<L.

Susi H. Hamilton

District 18

Serving Brunswick and New Hanover Counties
 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

PAT MCCRORY 1501MAIL SERVICE CENTER, RALEIGH, N.C. 27699-1501 ANTHONY J. TATA

GOVERNOR SECRETARY

PHONE 919-707-2800 FAX 919-733-9150 

July 19, 2013 

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development Program 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310 

Washington, DC 20590 

Subject: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application 

 Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

 Wilmington International Airport 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

Please accept my strongest endorsement for the above referenced grant application for Wilmington International 

Airport. Wilmington International Airport is in a unique position within our state. With a growing private sector 

business community and expanding tourism industry, the area is on the brink of significant and sustained growth. 

The airport is a key catalyst to promote this growth and support the growing commerce within the region. Access 

between marketplaces through expanded air service is critical to maintain the area’s growth and economic 

competitiveness. With the support of a Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application 

(SCASDG), I am confident the airport will be able to capture additional air service and improve connectivity 

between southeast North Carolina and other critical markets. 

I can personally assure you the airport leadership is strong and the proposed SCASDG is appropriate for 

Wilmington International Airport as it is one of the best managed airports in the entire country. With all the 

needed resources to execute a will conceived plan for improved air service, the airport has a strong need for the 

grant and is an ideal candidate for your program. 

Thank you for your consideration of the Wilmington International Airport SCASDG! 

Sincerely, 

Richard J. Walls, P.E. 

Deputy Secretary for Transportation 
Date 7/22/13 

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development Program 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310 

Washington, DC 20590 

Subject: 

Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application 

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

Wilmington, North Carolina 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

4 Seasons Site and Demo Inc. is in support of the subject grant application for the air service 

improvements. 4 Seasons bids and performs work across North and South Carolina. The ability 

to travel by air with a moment's notice is must in our line of work. As our business grows, so does 

the demand for air travel and improvements to air service. 

The proposed service improvements will be utilized by 4 Seasons and other businesses like ours. 

Sincerely, 

President/Owner

4 seasons Site & Demo Inc.

Chuck Ohnmacht 
All Kinds Of Stuff, LLC www.ShopAKOS.com 

 1231 Potomac Court, Wilmington, NC 28411 (910) 791-2147 FAX (910) 452-7408 

 July 15, 2013 

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development Program 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310 

Washington, DC 20590 

Subject: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application 

 Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

 Wilmington, North Carolina 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

All Kinds of Stuff supports the Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application for ILM – 

Wilmington International Airport. The air service at ILM is lacking in ease of travel whether it be for business or 

personal use. There are too many people that travel to other airports where the options are much better and you can 

get better connections. This severely hurts our local economy and ILM but could easily be corrected with improved 

services. 

All Kinds of Stuff would gladly use ILM with the proposed service improvements. I also feel it would be used by 

not only people and businesses in Wilmington but also from the surrounding communities. We don’t have a lot of 

choices and the outlying communities have a choice of ILM, Raleigh, NC or Myrtle Beach, SC. With this grant 

being approved for ILM, I feel confident that we, along with many others, would choose ILM instead of driving or 

going to another airport. 

Sincerely, 

Ann L Willard 

Ann L Willard 

All Kinds of Stuff, LLC 

Owner 
The futs Council

of Mlmington & NHC

July 19, 2013

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director

Small Community Air Service Development Program

U.S. Department of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310

Washlngton, DC 20590

Subject: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application

Docket DOT-OST-2o13-0120

Wilmington, North Carolina

Dear Ms. Chapman:

The Arts Council of Wilmington and New Hanover County strongly supports the Air Service Development

grant application for Wilmington lnternational Airport.

Our region's increasing regard as an arts destination is dependent upon access to the national aviation

system. Wilmington lnternational Airport is an important portal for our thriving film industry, as well as

many artists and arts organizations in southeastern North Carolina.

Additionally, many allied businesses which provlde goods and servlces to Wilmington's arts community

will benefit from the proposed service improvements.

We are hopeful that the U.S. Department of Transportation will invest in the improvements sought by

Wilmington lnternational Airport. Our 3000 creative industry workers and 150 arts organizations are

counting on it.

Sincerely,

$

\g

RhoTda Bellamy

Executive Director
 John Lyon 

 AT&T Regional Director 

 102 N. 4th St. 

 Wilmington, NC 28401 

 JL7169@att.com 

910-341-7622 (w) 910-599-4799 (c) 

July 17, 2013 

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development Program 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310 

Washington, DC 20590 

Subject: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application 

 Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

 Wilmington, North Carolina 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

As AT&T’s Regional Director of External Affairs, I would like to voice my support of ILM’s 

Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application. Having a vibrant and 

growing air transportation system is vital to the needs of existing businesses in the area, 

as well as for any new businesses that are considering locating to this area. The proposed 

air service improvements are much needed by our business and other businesses in the 

region to improve access to the national transportation system. 

I know that I will personally utilize ILM’s services in my business travels, as will many of my 

business associates and the customers that we serve in the area. 

Sincerely, 

John Lyon – AT&T 

Regional Director of External Affairs 

BARKER JONES & CO. 

C RTI I D ) B Ie ACCOU T A HS 

July 1 7, 2013 

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director 


Small Community Air Service Development Program 


U.S. Department of Transportation 


1200 New Jersey Ave., SE W86-310 


Washington, DC 20590 


Subject: 	 Small Community Air Service Developn1ent Grant Application 


Docket DOT-OST -2013-0120 


Wilmington, North Carolina 


Dear Ms. Chapman: 

Barker Jones & Co. supports the subject grant application. As part of a smaller business 

community, we rely on our local airport and the air services it provides to develop and 

expand the opportunities for our business to connect with current and potential clients 

outside our community. Improvements and expansion of its air services will only serve to 

increase our business opportunities and provide better access to the more global market 

place. 

The improvements in air services that the grant would provide are essential to the 


sustained growth of our business and to the other businesses in our community. We are 


strong supporters of our local airport and its continued role in serving the needs of our 


business community. 


Thank you for your consideration. 

Sincerely, 

~/VC7~~1T0 ' 

Barker Jones & Co. 

BY: ~~&. C. William Barker 

1508 MILITARY CUTOFF ROAD, SUITE 300, WILMINGTON, N C 28403 

[910]509-0803 • [910]509-0804 FAX 




 

1012 S. 17th Street; Wilmington, NC 28401

Phone: (910) 251-0911 Fax: (910) 251-9095 

Website: www.cfliteracy.org 

July 15, 2013 

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development Program 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310 

Washington, DC 20590 

Subject: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application 

 Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

 Wilmington, North Carolina 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

“ILM” is invaluable to this community and its sustainability. It is essential that our airport be top 

caliber in the services it provides travelers and the connections it affords them to the national 

transportation system. Our community has a diverse set of travelers – residents and those they 

welcome to Wilmington, tourists, and business/corporate travelers. Each of these groups relies 

on ILM to deliver the flights and services they need. Our community health depends on ILM’s 

doing just that. 

Therefore, we support ILM’s efforts to acquire the funds needed to make the proposed service 

improvements. All of us will benefit; and if our airport does not make necessary improvements 

and therefore lags behind, all of us will suffer the consequenceses. 

We respectfully urge you to fund the grant application. 

Sincerely, 

Linda P. Lytvinenko 

Executive Director 



1904 Eastwood Road, Suite 205 

Wilmington NC 28403 

Office 910.392.4612 

Fax 910.392.4612 

www.cavanaughsolutions.com

July 18, 2013 

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development Program 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310 

Washington, DC 20590 

Subject: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application 

 Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

 Wilmington, North Carolina 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

Cavanaugh & Associates, P.A. strongly supports the subject grant application for Wilmington 

International Airport (ILM). The sustenance and growth of our business relies on dependable and 

convenient air service. The businesses that are developing and growing in the Wilmington, NC market 

are providing goods and services across our nation and around the globe. Of the businesses and 

institutions we work with in the Wilmington area, nearly all engage in commerce in other geographic 

areas, and depend on air service for accessing their customers and markets. 

The air service improvements that are proposed for ILM in which this grant program will support are 

very important to our business and other businesses in the area. The proposed improvements will 

benefit our business, and we will take full advantage of them to aid in the sustenance and growth of our 

business. In this regard, I fully support the subject application for ILM. 

Sincerely; 

 

William G. “Gus” Simmons, Jr., P.E. 

Vice President, Director of Engineering 
5025	B	Wrightsville	Ave,	Wilmington,	NC		28403	

O:	910‐452‐7147,	E:	Ron.Copley@gmail.com,	F:	910‐452‐7145	

COPLEY INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT, LLC 

______________________________________ 

Ronald E. Copley, PhD, CFA 

July 19, 2012 

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director

Small Community Air Service Development Program

U.S. Department of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310

Washington, DC 20590

Subject: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application

 Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120

 Wilmington, North Carolina

Dear Ms. Chapman:

I	am	writing	this	letter	of	support	for	Wilmington	International	Airport’s	grant	

request.		

I	have	traveled	through	ILM	many	times	over	the	past	30	years	for	business,	and	can	

personally	attest	that	it	is	a	valuable	resource	to	the	local	business	community.	

Without	the	access	ILM	provides	CIM	to	the	national	transportation	network,	I	

would	have	to	relocate	my	business	to	an	alternate	city.		I	believe	that	this	grant	will	

provide	vital	capital	to	ILM	in	its	quest	to	maintain	state‐of‐the‐art	facilities	and	

technology;	improvements	that	support	a	vibrant	transportation	infrastructure	my	

business	and	other	local	businesses	require	for	conducting	business.	

Thank	you	for	considering	ILM’s	request	for	funding.	I	would	be	pleased	to	discuss	

with	you	over	the	phone	the	importance	of	this	grant.	Please	do	not	hesitate	to	call.	

Sincerely,	

Ronald	E.	Copley,	Phd,	CFA	

President	



1451 Military Cutoff Road

Wilmington, NC 28403

o:910.256.7237

c: 910.520.9199

July 23, 2013 

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development Program 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310 

Washington, DC 20590 

Subject: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application 

 Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

 Wilmington, North Carolina 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

Duke Energy is in support of the grant application submitted by the Wilmington International 

Airport. Access to the marketplace through local air service is important to the economic 

prosperity of the Cape Fear Region, and is a valued asset for local businesses in the area. The 

proposed air service improvements are essential for local businesses in the region to improve 

access to the national and global transportation systems. 

We are confident that the proposed service improvements will be used by local businesses, and 

will keep ILM competitive in the air service industry. 

Sincerely, 

John K. Elliott 

Director, NC East Region 

Duke Energy Carolinas 

July 22, 2013 

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development Program 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE W86-310 

Washington, D.C. 20590 

 Re: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application 

 Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

 Wilmington, North Carolina 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

 With its amazing coastline, Wilmington relies heavily on summer tourism for revenue; however, 

more and more people are relocating to the area as permanent residents. The area’s growth extends 

a considerable distance outside of Wilmington. North Carolina’s coastline is becoming vastly more 

populated for many miles both north and south of Wilmington; thus, the need for more flight options 

becoming more imperative in order to maintain the growth/economy. It has only been since the late 

1980’s that Interstate 40 reached Wilmington and as a result the city persistently attempts to lure 

businesses to relocate to this charming coastal city. In spite of councilman and commissioner’s 

diligence, the one issue that cannot be ignored is that flights to ILM are not nearly plentiful enough and 

are too constraining for business travelers. It is quite normal for both residents and travelers to fly into 

other venues, such as, Raleigh or Myrtle Beach; thereby, redirecting the attention from Wilmington. I 

can assure you with the utmost certainty that the expansion will be welcomed by not only the residents 

of Wilmington and the surrounding towns and cities, but, also by visitors and what we hope will be new 

business travelers. 

 Evergreen Clearing, Inc., along with many other local businesses, will most definitely benefit 

from the highly anticipated service improvements at ILM. 

 Sincerely, 

 D. Brian Benford, President 

 Evergreen Clearing, Inc. 

Evergreen Clearing, Inc.

2605 Blue Clay Rd. 

Wilmington, NC 28405 

910-762-9156 




July 19, 2013 

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director

Small Community Air Service Development Program

U.S. Department of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310

Washington, DC 20590

Subject: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application

 Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 - Wilmington, North Carolina

Dear Ms. Chapman:

We are writing to inform you of our support of Wilmington (N.C.) International Airport’s (ILM) Small 

Community Air Service Development Grant Application. As the largest private employer in the 

Wilmington area, GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy (the nuclear division of GE) relies on convenient air 

access in and out of Wilmington for our employees, our customers and our stakeholders from around 

the nation and the world. 

The proposed expansion of Wilmington’s air service offerings are needed to improve access to the 

national transportation system, sustaining growth and industry in the area. Enduring multiple 

connections to get to our country’s and the globe’s major business hubs is a detriment to doing 

business in a connected world. Access to multiple hubs would increase access to and from our area 

in a meaningful way.

With the recent announcement of GE’s expansion in North Carolina as well as GE Hitachi Nuclear 

Energy’s continued growth in national and international markets, we are also looking to attract 

talent. Promoting Wilmington as an ideal place to live and work is one of the ways we do this. 

Expanding scheduled air service is an important factor in this effort.

Expanding air service in Wilmington makes sense, and we look forward to a positive outcome to the 

grant process. 

Sincerely, 

Caroline Reda 

President & CEO 

GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy

GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy

Caroline Reda

President & CEO 

GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy

3901 Castle Hayne Road

P.O. Box 780

Wilmington, NC 28402

USA

T 910-819-3900 

F 910-362-3900
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

3142 WRIGHTSVILLE AVENUE  WILMINGTON NC 28403 

OFFICE: 910.343.1065  FAX: 910.343.1067  EMAIL: BGOODARCH@AOL.COM

July 17, 2013 

Brook Chapman, Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development Program 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave., SE W86-310 

Washington, D.C. 20590 

Subject: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application 

 Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

 Wilmington, North Carolina 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

Being a local business owner, I cannot stress how important our local airport service is vital to 

our community. Many of my clients live out of state and travel to Wilmington via flying. The 

proposed air service improvements will definitely enhance their, and mine, efficiency in doing 

business. 

I assure you the service improvements will benefit all businesses in this region. 

Respectfully, 

H. Blair Goodrich 

Principal 

Goodrich Architecture. P.A. 





7/16/2013

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director

Small Community Air Service Development Program

U.S. Department of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86‐310

Washington, DC 20590

Subject:  Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application

Docket DOT‐OST‐2013‐0120

Wilmington, North Carolina

Dear Ms. Chapman:

Julia’s Florist highly supports the ILM grant application.  As a florist, I rely heavily on both cargo and

travel services.  Julia’s Florist receives weekly flower shipments through ILM from Florida, Canada &

California.  It is imperative that access improvements remain a top priority in Wilmington.   

Air travel services are equally important for our business.  As a board member with the Society of

American Florist, ILM provides important business travel availability around the country.  Increased

destination access would offer greater options for my company.   

Sincerely,

Dana Cook

Julia’s Florist

Owner

900 South Kerr Ave Wilmington, NC, 28403, 910‐395‐1868
KEN WEEDEN & ASSOCIATES, INC. 

Planning Consultants 

AVIATION ● TRANSPORTATION ● CONTRACT COMPLIANCE 

Corporate Headquarters 

PO Box 3113 

Wilmington NC 28406 

Phone: 910.762.6297 

Fax: 910.762.5963 

Web: www.kwaplanning.com 

July 19, 2013 

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development Program 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310 

Washington, DC 20590 

Subject: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application 

 Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

 Wilmington, North Carolina 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

As an airport compliance consultant, based in Wilmington, I certainly recognize the importance of dependable, 

viable air service. We use our local airport extensively and value the access it gives us to serve our clients –

whether in Charlotte, or Spokane. We really support this grant application. Can we do better? Sure. The 

proposed air service improvements will serve to enhance our business growth potential as well as for many others 

throughout our region by improving our access to the national transportation system. Thanks for your 

consideration. 

Sincerely, 

Ken Weeden

Wilmington NC ● Raleigh NC ● Charlotte NC ● Savannah GA 
_____________________________________________________________________________ 

July 13, 2013 

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development Program 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310 

Washington, DC 20590 

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

 Wilmington, North Carolina 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

As a local business person I use and appreciate our local airport. They have consistently served our 

community without a big drain on our tax base. The improvements itemized in the above listed grant 

application are indeed needed and will enhance the service this airport provides. The majority of my 

clients use the local airport with its access to the national system. 

The proposed improvements will be used by company and my business clients. I hope you will favorably 

consider this request. 

Sincerely, 

Larry Bell 

Broker/Realtor® 

2528 INDEPENDENCE BOULEVARD, SUITE 200 WILMINGTON, NC PH 910.790.9901 FAX 910.790.3111 LS3P.COM

July 19, 2013 

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development Program 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310 

Washington, DC 20590 

Subject: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application 

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

 Wilmington, North Carolina 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

Wilmington is blessed with many natural resources. But one of our greatest assets is our airport. Access to 

transportation is critical in a market such as ours – we depend on the ability to travel efficiently and quickly in 

order to serve our clients. 

The proposed air service improvements are essential for southeastern North Carolina, and will allow us to 

compete nationwide with other communities. I vigorously support the proposal and urge you to approve it. 

We will use it – both as a company and as a promotional tool for our greater community. 

Please contact me if I can provide further assistance regarding this application. 

With sincerest regards, 

LS3P Architects 

Christopher L. Boney, AIA 

Vice President / Managing Principal 

 

 

 P.O. Box 3415 Wilmington, NC 28406 910.350.1211 louise@mccoll-associates.com 

July 19, 2013 

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development Program 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310 

Washington, DC 20590 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

Being born and raised in Wilmington, NC and raised close to the 

airport I know the value of air service to our area. Wilmington 

International Airport is valuable to our business community, film 

industry and the leisure traveler. I am in total support of the Small 

Community Air Service Development Grant Application, Docket 

DOT-OST-2013-0120, Wilmington, North Carolina 

The proposed air service improvements vital to our region. Improved 

access to our national transportation system is always on the front of 

our transportation goals for the airport. 

Having served on the North Carolina Economic Development Board, 

The NC Department of Transportation Board and the North Carolina 

State Ports Board I can assure you we need it – we will use it – and we 

endorse it. And out business community will be very thankful. 

Sincerely, 

 Louise 

Louise F. McColl, 

President/Owner 

McColl & Associates, Inc 

Flash Promotions 
July 19, 2013

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director

Small Community Air Service Development Program

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310

Washington, DC 20590

Subject: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120

Wilmington, North Carolina

Dear Ms. Chapman:

On behalf of the New Hanover County Tourism Development Authority, I would like to state our 

support of the above referenced grant application. Access to the marketplace through local air 

service is vitally important to the tourism industry as well as other businesses in the community. 

The proposed air service improvements are much needed by all our businesses in the region to 

improve access to the national transportation system. 

Your positive consideration of this grant application is greatly appreciated. 

Sincerely,

Kim Hufham 

President/CEO


900 Loggerhead Road, Kure Beach, NC 28449 • (910) 458-8257 • Fax: (910) 458-6812

www.ncaquariums.com

July 15, 2013

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director

Small Community Air Service Development Program

U.S. Department of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310

Washington, DC 20590

Subject: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120

Wilmington, North Carolina

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

I am writing to support the small community grant application submitted for Wilmington 

International Airport. Our region’s continuing growth relies on access, communication 

and transportation. The proposed air service improvements will improve access to the 

national transportation system and benefit the Aquarium and other businesses. In 

addition to creating improved access for tourists flying to Wilmington and surrounding 

areas for a destination vacation, upgrades will make doing business easier in terms of

our own frequent travel and shipping needs. 

The proposed service improvements will be used by businesses such as ours. Thank 

you for your consideration of Wilmington International Airport’s proposal. 

Sincerely,

Peggy Sloan

Director

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES

PAT MCCRORY, GOVERNOR • JOHN E. SKVARLA, III, SECRETARY • DAVID R. GRIFFIN, DIVISION DIRECTOR
July 17, 2013 

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development Program 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310 

Washington, DC 20590 

Subject: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application 

 Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

 Wilmington, North Carolina 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

OpinionLab, Inc. is in full support of the referenced grant application. OpinionLab is the global leader in 

Voice of Customer (VoC) feedback innovation, serving a prestigious client list that includes nearly half of 

Fortune 50 organizations such as Wal-Mart, Bank of America, Ford Motor Company, and many more. 

With real-time listening solutions for every brand touch point, this pioneering VoC platform invites 

consumers to share input in their own words, at anytime, from anywhere, helping organizations collect, 

understand, and leverage both structured and unstructured customer data. For over a decade, hundreds 

of the world’s leading brands have looked to the familiar [+] feedback symbol to better acquire, engage, 

and retain customers through an approach so streamlined it’s groundbreaking: listen always, listen 

everywhere. The result is actionable customer insight that sparks foundational improvement to companies’ 

products, people, and brands. 

Over two years ago, OpinionLab chose to expand its national presence from our headquarters in Illinois 

to a satellite office in Wilmington, NC as the venue for our expansive growth and future development. As 

access to the marketplace through local air service is critically important to our business and other 

businesses in the community, we are respectfully requesting that the DOT give consideration to the 

application to further revitalize the Wilmington area and bring further growth and development of other 

similarly minded businesses. Every week, OpinionLab employees, customers and shareholders travel in 

and out of the Wilmington airport en route to domestic and foreign locations. The proposed air service 

improvements are significantly required by our business and other businesses in the region to improve 

access to the national transportation system, increase the ease of travel in and out of the greater 

Wilmington area and contribute to further economic expansion in coastal North Carolina. 

Thank you for your courtesies and consideration. 

Sincerely, 

Rand Nickerson 

Chairman & CEO 





SOUTHERN METALS RECYCLING, INC. 

Scrap Iron - Metals 

DEALERS - EXPORTERS - BROKERS 

Yard #1 Front & Wright Street P.O. BOX 2139 Yard #2 Highway 421 North 

Phone (910) 762-9619 WILMINGTON, NC 28402 Phone (910) 762-2646 

Fax (910) 762-9620 Fax (910) 762-2153 

July 19, 2013 

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development Program 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310 

Washington, DC 20590 

Subject: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application 

Docket DOT-OST-201 3-0 120 

Wilmington, NC 

Dear Ms. Chapman 

This letter is in support of this very special grant application. Having adequate access to 

the marketplace through local air service is critical to my business and business 

community as a whole. The proposed air service improvements are much needed by all 

concerned to give us adequate access to the national transportation system. 

I believe the these service improvements are greatly needed and will be used by my 

company and all other in the area. 

Sincerely 

MarkAlper 

Vice President 

131SR1 

M E M B E R Institute of Scrap Recyling Industries, Inc. 

SUMMER SANDS SUITES 

104 Lumina Avenue 

Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480

July 17, 2013 

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development Program 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310 

Washington, DC 20590 

Subject: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application 

 Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

 Wilmington, North Carolina 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

Summer Sands is in support of the subject grant application. Access to the marketplace through 

local air service is vitally important to our business and other businesses in the community. The 

proposed air service improvements are much needed by our business and other businesses in 

the region to improve access to the national transportation system. 

I assure you that the proposed service improvements will be used by businesses such as ours 

and our guests that fly into the area. I have had on many occasions been able to share stories 

with our guests about their travel into and out of ILM. Many of our guests come from the midwest, the north and even across the country. They travel for business and for family reunions that 

bring them to our beaches and vibrant downtown. It is vital to keep those routes open and 

affordable to keep our guests returning and flying through ILM. 

We need ILM to continue to grow with our community. 

Sincerely, 

Laura Schauer 

Manager 




Brooke Chapman, Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development Program 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310 

Washington, DC 20590 

 July 15, 2013 

Subject: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application 

 Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

 Wilmington, North Carolina 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

I wish you to know that as a small businessman whose company frequently uses ILM for both 

business and personal travel that I fully support Wilmington International Airport (ILM) in the grant 

application referenced above. The airport provides our employees access to key markets where 

many of our clients are located. The proposed Air Service improvements are needed and will be 

beneficial to the company and its employees for their business and personal travel. I also believe 

that the improvements will benefit other businesses in eastern North & South Carolina as will. 

I assure you that the proposed service improvements will be used by The Tidewater Group Inc. 

and other businesses in southeast Carolina. 

Sincerely, 

William C. H. Zimmerman 

Managing Director 

Tidewater Group Inc. 

UBS Financial Services Inc. 

1985 Eastwood Road 

Suite 110 

Wilmington. NC 28403 

Tel. 910-256-3376 

Fax 910-509-1381 

Toll Free 800-932-5402 

www.ubs com 

July 16, 2013 

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development Program 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310 

Washington, DC 20590 

Subject: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application 

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

Wilmington, North Carolina 

Dear Ms Chapman 

Michael C Pearson (Chad) is in support of the subject grant application Access to the 

marketplace through local air service is vitally important to our business and other businesses in 

the community The proposed air service improvements are much needed by our business and 

other businesses in the region to improve access to the national transportation system 

I assure you that the proposed service improvements will be used by businesses such as ours. I 

am also a pilot, plane owner, etc Aviation is critical to managing our business and to keep our 

employees employed We need this funding and we will use it. 

In Appreciation, . 

^.cM fi*~—— 

M Chad Pearson, CFP 

FVP, Portfolio Manager 

UBS Financial Services 

1985 Eastwood Dr, Suite 100 

Wilmington NC 28403 

UBS 

UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. 

		 																								

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 

William Vassar, Chairman 

Carey Jones, Vice-Chairperson 

Honorable Beth Dawson 

Honorable Bill Saffo 

James L F Smith

July 16th, 2013 

Brooke Chapman, Associate Director 

Small Community Air Service Development Program 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE W86-310 

Washington, DC 20590 

Subject: Small Community Air Service Development Grant Application 

 Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 

 Wilmington, North Carolina 

Dear Ms. Chapman: 

The Wilmington Regional Film Commission fully supports the Wilmington International Airport (ILM) in their grant 

application that will provide for enhanced service to assist in generating additional economic benefit for the region. Air 

transportation is high on our clients' list of deciding factors in bringing business to our community. Our industry relies 

on accessibility to reliable and consistent air transportation for industry executives coming from major markets. Even 

though we are a smaller market, our competition is primarily from larger markets. Our clients expect the air service in 

Wilmington to be comparable to what is found in their own larger competing markets. The proposed air service 

improvements are much needed by our business and other businesses in the region to keep competitive and improve 

access to the national transportation system. 

I assure you that the proposed service improvements will be used by businesses such as ours. We need it and we will 

use it. 

Sincerely, 

Johnny Griffin 

Director 

The Wilmington Regional Film Commission, LLC