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
