Major cities in the northern and eastern panhandles of West Virginia are directly served by Pittsburgh International Airport and Dulles International Airport. Convenient air freight service and air cargo capabilities are available in most areas of the state. Of the state's 38 public airports, eight contain regularly scheduled commercial airline service and 30 maintain general aviation airfields. Additionally, there are more than 20 private airstrips. Five airlines serve the state's commercial airports.
Private charters are readily available to meet a variety of needs.
In addition, newly proposed airports have entered the planning stages. Designed to meet the needs of manufacturers and natural resource industries, these rail lines allow coal, lumber and other natural resources to be easily and economically transported. In 1999, Conrail's existinig West Virginia lines will be operated by Norfolk Southern. Connections in the East, South and Midwest allow West Virginia's rail companies to ship products nationwide, while guaranteeing prompt delivery of raw materials to production facilities within the state. The West Virginia State Rail Authority oversees the state's rail transportation, ensuring essential rail service is maintained for business and industry.