Rono Regional Airport proposes $38M capital program; city not asked for additional operating funds

The Rono Regional Airport Commission presented its FY27 operating budget and a $38.3 million capital program to Rono City Council on April 6, and council approved the package by roll call.

Executive Officer Mike Stewart reported strong FY26 operating results and forecast an operating net income of slightly over $3 million for FY27, noting improved parking, rental car, and non‑airline revenues. The FY27 capital program is dominated by runway rehabilitation work and terminal improvements; Stewart estimated the runway and related projects would total roughly $38.3 million and stressed the work is critical safety and capacity investment.

"We're focused on reducing user costs for airlines while growing non‑airline revenue," Stewart told council, adding that quieter airline landing fees and higher ancillary revenues help attract and retain air service. He highlighted recent service gains—Delta and United adding capacity, and American launching a Dallas/Fort Worth nonstop in June—and said passenger traffic set new records in 2025.

Councilmembers asked about concession expansion and terminal improvements; Stewart said design work is underway and moving the security checkpoint will open additional post‑security concession space. He also described community programs run by the airport, including volunteer airport ambassadors and fundraising events that benefited Special Olympics Virginia.

Council approved the commission's operating and capital proposals with no additional appropriation requested from the city, and members encouraged continued efforts to "fly local" to sustain air service and maximize the airport's regional economic impact.

Outcome: Council adopted the ROA FY27 operating and capital plan by roll call; the airport will proceed with design and grant/FAA funding efforts to advance the runway rehabilitation project.