England Airpark and the Alexandria International Airport (AEX) reflected on an impressive year of strategic
planning, growth and transformation in 2024, setting the stage for an even more dynamic 2025. England Airpark’s strategic plan and planned enhanced air service development have solidified its position as a vital transportation hub for the Central Louisiana area.
A Year of Milestones
In 2024, England Airpark experienced:
The launch of England Airpark’s 15-year Strategic Plan as well as an airport passenger traffic increase of 1%, reflecting a rebound in air travel and heightened demand for domestic and international destinations from Central Louisiana. The airport saw a notable increase in travelers for the 2024 holiday season.
The Alexandria International Airport has successfully completed several major infrastructure projects, including a Runway Safety Area Project, a North Ramp Joint Seal Project, a Precision Runway Approach Lighting System, a new Air Traffic Control Radio Installation, upgrades to the Terminal Security System, and the completion of a Wildlife Fence Rehabilitation Project. These critical improvements were undertaken at a total investment cost of approximately $22,500,000.
Economic Development
In 2024, England Airpark welcomed new companies Sol Powerlines, LLC, and Global Crossing Airlines, Inc. Sol Powerlines is a utility contractor that provides professional services to IOU’s, electric cooperatives, municipalities, and industrial companies. They will have 18 office personnel at the England Airpark Office with 280 working under their direction in the field. Global Crossing Airlines is an airline providing services to the US Government, sports teams, casinos, as well as other operators and airlines. Global will provide maintenance services and training at the EA location as well as charter flight services for the US Government. They will have 50 employees operating at their facility including MRO services, operations, and training.
NSU Expands to 2nd Building
Northwestern St. University opened the doors to students and faculty in the Fall of 2024 to their newly renovated 2nd building expanding the NSU Central Louisiana Campus at England Airpark to 65,000 sq ft. The second building will allow NSU to expand its Nursing degree programs and add Rad Tech degree programs to support and fill the jobs of the Central Louisiana medical community.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we enter 2025, England Airpark is focused on further elevating its role in the region’s economic and transportation landscape. Key initiatives include:
Expanded Air Services: We have plans to continue to increase airline partnership strategies, making it easier than ever for travelers to reach their destinations.
The Alexandria International Airport is embarking on an ambitious slate of infrastructure projects in 2025, with an estimated investment exceeding $47,000,000. Key initiatives include a significant Runway Extension Project, the construction of an Aircraft Wash Rack, and the expansion of the South Ramp. Additionally, the airport will undertake Terminal and Road Improvements, enhance the Air Traffic Control Tower, and commence design work on numerous other crucial projects, all aimed at improving safety,
efficiency, and overall operational capacity.
“2024 was a transformative year for both England Airpark and the Alexandria International Airport,” said Ralph Hennessy, C.M., Executive Director. “As we look to 2025, we are committed to building on this momentum by delivering exceptional service, growing our destination network, and enhancing our
facilities to meet the needs of our passengers and partners.”
For more information about England Airpark, visit www.englandairpark.org.