Gregory Campbell, executive director of the Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport Commission, has high hopes for the airport-operated Avitat FBO. Though he asked visitors to “pardon my dust” during the current renovation, he expects the airport to become an even more popular business aviation destination. The renovation plans include a complete refurbishment of the passenger lobby interior, taking advantage of the already sunny floor-to-ceiling glass. Pilot and passenger lounges are also due for an upgrade.

The airport is a good example of joint use between a thriving business and personal aviation clientele and the regional airlines. Campbell said passenger throughput got a big boost when airline service switched from connecting with the Pittsburgh hub to flying to Washington Dulles. He explained, “When the airline connected n Pittsburgh, many potential passengers figured they might as well drive the few hours to Dulles, which has better connections.” Now, the short flight to Dulles is much more tempting for Shenandoah Valley residents, so there has been a spike in airline service at the airport.