ILM increases passenger numbers, plans $250M in infrastructure needs Wilmington International Airport (ILM) has seen a significant rise in passenger traffic, with annual travelers now surpassing 1.8 million—a sharp increase from the 760,000 recorded a decade ago. While this growth highlights the airport’s expanding role as an economic driver, it also underscores the need for substantial infrastructure upgrades. Airport director Jeffrey Bourk outlined these challenges during a meeting with local officials, emphasizing the importance of preparing for future expansion. Bourk presented a review of 2025 performance alongside an updated Vision Plan, developed in 2022 to position ILM as a “world class airport.” The plan includes projections for continued growth, with enplanement numbers—essentially one-way passenger counts—expected to double over the next decade. The North Carolina Department of Transportation’s 2025 report noted ILM’s estimated $3.3 billion local economic impact, alongside $192 million in tax revenue and 20,000 jobs. The airport’s financial operations are largely independent, though New Hanover County owns the land and leases it to the airport authority board. The board, appointed by county commissioners, oversees ILM’s management. In 2026, the airport’s projected revenue ranges between $21 million and $22 million, derived from leases, aviation fees, and terminal operations. Key income sources include $3 million from the ILM Business Park, $2.5 million from aviation services, and $15.8 million from terminal activities. Enplanement numbers rose 23.2% since last year, with 2025 marking the airport’s highest level on record. The Federal Aviation Administration forecasts enplanements to reach 1.#wilmington_international_airport #jeffrey_bourk #north_carolina_department_of_transportation #new_hanover_county #ilm_business_park
Wilmington International Airport Expands Infrastructure to Support Future Growth Wilmington International Airport (ILM) is advancing a series of capital projects aimed at accommodating projected growth and enhancing its infrastructure. The airport’s director, Jeff Bourk, outlined plans during a joint meeting with the New Hanover County Airport Authority and Board of Commissioners, emphasizing the need for investment to sustain expansion. The proposed projects, totaling over $490 million in investment, include $243 million in capital projects directly tied to the airport’s development. The airport has seen significant growth since 2019, with enplanements—passengers boarding aircraft—rising from approximately 500,000 annually to over 907,000 in 2025, representing a 67% increase. Bourk noted that passenger forecasts predict ILM will handle between 1.1 million and 1.5 million enplanements by 2045. To support this growth, the airport is investing in infrastructure upgrades, including terminal expansions, baggage facilities, and airfield improvements. Key projects include the second phase of a $134 million initiative, which involves reconfiguring roads around the airport, constructing the first parking garage, and updating the terminal entrance and curbfront. The parking garage is expected to open in October 2026, while the curbfront will be completed by March 2027. A second parking garage, estimated to cost $50 million and completed by 2032 or 2033, is also in the design phase. This expansion could add up to 1,500 parking spaces and allow the airport to grow “two or three times what it is today,” according to Bourk. Roadway improvements are another focus, with two projects underway. The N.C.#wilmington_international_airport #jeff_bourk #new_hanover_county_airport_authority #board_of_commissioners #breeze_airways
New Hanover County Board of Commissioners to Hold Joint Meeting with Airport Authority The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners will convene a joint meeting with the Airport Authority on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. The meeting will take place in the Executive Conference Room located on the second floor of Wilmington International Airport, situated at 1740 Airport Boulevard in Wilmington, NC. The primary objective of the gathering is for the Airport Authority to deliver its annual report and present an updated vision plan. This meeting marks an opportunity for the Board to engage with the Airport Authority on key developments and strategic initiatives affecting the region's aviation infrastructure. The annual report will provide an overview of the Airport Authority’s financial performance, operational achievements, and future goals for the facility. The vision plan update is expected to outline long-term strategies for expanding services, improving facilities, and enhancing the airport’s role in supporting regional economic growth. Attendees will also have the chance to ask questions and provide input on the proposed initiatives. The meeting is open to the public, and interested individuals are encouraged to attend to stay informed about the airport’s progress and plans for the coming years.#wilmington_international_airport #new_hanover_county_board_of_commissioners #airport_authority #wilmington_nc #airport_boulevard
