The Maryland Aviation System is playing a pivotal role in driving economic growth and enhancing global connectivity for the state, with BWI Marshall Airport leading the charge. The airport has reported an impressive annual economic impact of $11.3 billion and supports over 100,000 jobs in the region. Recent figures indicate that BWI Marshall has not only recovered but surpassed pre-pandemic passenger traffic, welcoming a record 2.6 million travelers this past summer.

Key infrastructure improvements are underway, including the AB connector and baggage handling project, which is the largest capital improvement initiative in the airport's history. This project aims to double the baggage handling capacity for Southwest Airlines and is expected to be completed by December 2025.

Beyond BWI Marshall, Maryland's 33 public-use airports collectively contribute $1.4 billion in economic activity and sustain approximately 10,000 jobs statewide. Martin State Airport, a crucial general aviation hub, supports over 2,300 jobs and generates nearly $49 million in state and local tax revenue. A recent $32 million runway rehabilitation project at Martin State, in collaboration with the National Guard, has enhanced safety and efficiency.

The Maryland Transportation Authority (MTA) is also backing regional airports through a statewide aviation grant program, allocating $3.5 million in funding for fiscal year 2025, which includes $200,000 for Essex Skypark to improve its terminal.

Meanwhile, the Maryland Port Administration is witnessing a recovery in cargo operations, with August numbers showing a 31% increase in car shipments and a 28% rise in breakbulk cargo. The port is now handling over 90% of the ships it managed a year ago and is averaging about 33,100 trucks daily, nearing pre-incident levels.

The Port of Baltimore is also expanding its cruise operations, with ships like Carnival Pride and Royal Caribbean's Vision of the Seas resuming voyages to popular destinations. New cruise lines, including Azamara and AIDA Cruises, are set to enhance the port's offerings in the coming years.

Looking ahead, the Howard Street Tunnel Project is expected to significantly boost the port's capacity by allowing double-stacked containers on rail, projected to increase annual business by 160,000 containers and create over 13,000 jobs. The port's strategic location and skilled labor force continue to position it as a vital economic asset for Maryland, despite ongoing assessments of damages from recent disruptions.