By Rich Dupree
Recently, we took a deep dive into the topic of “Do we really Love the Locals” when it comes to our shopping and buying habits. We specifically looked at the impact on locally owned businesses, including the “Mom & Pop” stores that depend on your loyal patronage.
Another locally owned business that really depends on your support is Alexandria International Airport. AEX is not only locally owned and operated, but AEX can only grow and offer more carriers to more destinations when you fly locally and choose Alexandria International Airport.
AEX serves nearly 200,000 commercial passengers annually through two carriers: American Airlines and Delta Air Lines. Because many of you have chosen to fly out of Alexandria, United Airline service to Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport returns to AEX in May 2026, with twice-daily flights operated by SkyWest Airlines. As demand grows, AEX hopes to see frequency increase to three flights per day. Learn more at https://flyaex.org/united/.
Thankfully, United’s announcement a few months ago has already had a positive impact on lower fares out of Alexandria – and that is why you fly local – to save time and money and support the airport community and other regional stakeholders. While the “Fly Local, AEXplore Global” campaign has ended, you can still find the cost calculator and other resources at https://local.flyaex.org/.
There are many others who depend on you “Loving the Locals.” When you choose to Fly AEX, you support approximately 60 other businesses that operate at England Airpark, supporting not only aviation, but also manufacturing, logistics, education, engineering, and more. For a list of current tenants, click here: https://englandairpark.org/business/airpark-business-partners/.
As you can see, the economic impact of Alexandria International Airport is HUGE – and AEX is doing its part to keep you coming back. In 2025, AEX invested tens of millions of dollars in airfield and terminal security, including these major capital projects: terminal security, runway extension, baggage belt replacement, wildlife mitigation fence, and airfield electrical system.
Alexandria International Airport is an economic development jewel for Central Louisiana and has earned our support! If you’ve never been to England Airpark and visited AEX, do so soon and see why it is so important to fly local? Save time and money and support our airport community and other regional stakeholders.