Despite the success of flights to Memphis, mid-Missouri's main commercial airport still has been cited as a hindrance to the region's economic development. What might be done to increase airport traffic and better connect mid-Missouri to the world?
Panelists: Mike Brooks, president, Regional Economic Development Inc. (REDI) Bob McDavid, mayor of Columbia Andrew Schneider, manager, Columbia Regional Airport
Fine show today. One important issue that was not addressed, is that from the standpoint of economic development and civil aviation, Jefferson City already has a wonderful airport that is actually busier than COU. There is no advantage whatsoever that COU has to offer Jefferson City other than regularly scheduled airline service. JEF also offers advanced repair and avionics services, and is right across the bridge, offering great convenience to Jefferson City over COU.
Any airport commission would have to be aware that both Jefferson City and Fulton already pay to support their own airports, which are far more convenient for corporate jets, etc. All they really have to offer these communities is good, regularly scheduled airline service, which is no small thing, but that's how it needs to be marketed. As far a civil aviation goes, Jefferson City has that covered.