December 18, 2012

The Jacksonville Aviation Authority is preparing for the Christmas holiday travel season by opening the Economy Lot 3 at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) from Friday, December 21, through Sunday, January 5, or until the lot fills up, for a flat fee of $20. The fee is payable with cash or credit card upon entry.

This special event lot will operate on a first-come first-serve basis and may close without notice. Free shuttle service is available until January 5. Vehicles remaining in Economy Lot 3 after January 5 may be towed at the owner’s expense.

Travelers should arrive at least two hours before their flight to allow additional time to locate parking if their first parking choice is not available. 

Other parking options include Economy Lots 1 and 2 ($5.00 per day), Daily Surface Lot ($8.00 per day), Daily Garage ($14.00 per day) or the Hourly Garage ($18.00 per day). All prices include tax.

JAA recommends that travelers who meet and greet their families/friends use the hourly garage, if available. Another option is to wait in the free courtesy waiting lot, located next to the JAA’s administration building, until family/friends arrive.
 
For more information about the parking options at JAX, please contact the parking office at (904) 741.2277, or visit JAX's Parking Information web page.

Hundreds of New Aviation-related Jobs Expected for Jacksonville

JACKSONVILLE, December 17, 2012 – The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) today announced that it will build a new 150,000-square-foot hangar at Cecil Airport to accommodate expansion of Flightstar Aircraft Services, Inc. operation, which is expected to generate 350 to 400 new aviation-related jobs.

The new $27 million hangar, which is being financed equally by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and JAA, will be the largest building project ever undertaken by JAA at Cecil Airport.

Under the agreement with Flightstar, JAA will build the hangar and office facility on 11.5 acres of airport property. The project also includes an adjoining aircraft apron and vehicle parking lot.

Upon completion, JAA will lease the land and Hangar 935 to Flightstar for maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) at Cecil Airport.  Flightstar currently leases two MRO hangars and one large warehouse/storage building at Cecil Airport from the Authority. 

“Flightstar has been a significant tenant at Cecil Airport, and we are thrilled to see them expand their operations,” said JAA Chairman A.L. Kelly. “The decision to build Hangar 935 is beneficial for both Flightstar and the Airport, and will add a welcome boost to the Jacksonville economy.”

JAA is providing $13.5 million for the project. FDOT is matching that with a $13.5 million contribution. Should the cost of construction exceed the total JAA and FDOT project participation of $27 million, any additional cost would be Flightstar’s responsibility under the terms of the lease.

The Jacksonville AviationAuthority is preparing for the Thanksgiving holiday travel season by openingthe Economy Lot 3 at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) from Wednesday, November21, through Tuesday, November 27, or until the lot fills up, for a flat fee of$20. The fee is payable with cash or credit card uponentry.

This specialevent lot will operate on a first-come first-serve basis and may close withoutnotice. Free shuttle service is available until November 27. Vehicles remainingin Economy Lot 3 after November 27 may be towed at the owner’s expense.

Travelersshould arrive at least two hours before their flight to allow additional timeto locate parking if their first parking choice is not available. 

Other parkingoptions include Economy Lots 1 and 2 ($5.00 per day), Daily Surface Lot ($8.00per day), Daily Garage ($14.00 per day) or the Hourly Garage ($18.00 per day).All prices include tax.

JAA recommendsthat travelers who meet and greet their families/friends use the hourly garage,if available. Another option is to wait in the free courtesy waiting lot,located next to the JAA’s administration building, until family/friends arrive.

Formore information about the parking options at JAX, please contact the parkingoffice at (904) 741.2277, or visit JAX's ParkingInformation web page.

For more information aboutJAA, visit www.flyjacksonville.com.

Jacksonville Aviation Authority today elected A.L. Kelly as JAA Board of Directors chairman for the 2012-2013 fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1.

The 2012 Wings ‘N’ Wheelsevent hosted by the Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) and the ExperimentalAircraft Association (EAA) will take place at Jacksonville Executive at CraigAirport (JAXEX) this Saturday, September 8, 2012 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Wings ‘N’ Wheels will featurestatic aircraft displays, a car show, live entertainment, plane rides, food anda kids’ zone sponsored by the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department.

“This free event gives us theopportunity to showcase the benefits and services JAXEX brings to the Jacksonvillecommunity,” JAXEX Airport Manager Tiffany Gillem said. “As an economic engine,JAXEX annually contributes over $131 million and supports approximately 1,100jobs to our region.”

Gillem also stressed that this event was an excellentopportunity to expose aviation career opportunities to younger generations who willbe making career decisions.

Author Bruce Gambel will alsobe premiering his new book, “Swashbucklers and Black Sheep” at Wings ‘n’Wheels. It is a hardcover account of America’s famous Black Sheep squadron, ledby Major Greg “Pappy” Boyington. Gamble will not only be available to sign hisbook, but will have his restored 1967 Mustang convertible on display.

The JAA is in the midst of ayear-long celebration of its 10th anniversary as an independent agency sinceseparating from Jacksonville Port Authority (JAXPORT) in 2001. Events have beenheld at each of the Authority’s airports to commemorate this significantmilestone. Wings ‘N’ Wheels is the final event to close out a year celebratingJAA’s successes and looking forward to a future that will further benefit theentire Jacksonville community.

Parking and admission to theevent are free.

Pets and coolers are notallowed at the event.

Jacksonville Executiveat Craig Airport (JAXEX)

855 Saint Johns Bluff Road, N.

Jacksonville, FL 32225

For more information, visit www.wingsnwheels2012.com, or call (904) 641.7666.

June 14, 2012

The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) today announced that it received first and third place Excellence in Airport Marketing & Communications awards at this year’s  annual Airports Council International – North America conference held in Sacramento.

The JAA received recognition in two categories:

?        Creative Innovations - Technology

1^st Place: Jacksonville International Airport Mobile Website - JAXMOBILE

?        Newsletters
3^rd Place:  Jacksonville Aviation Authority 10^th Anniversary Special Edition Newsletter        

“We’re all extremely proud of our marketing and external affairs teams for working together to earn these distinguished awards,” said JAA Executive Director and CEO Steve Grossman. “They consistently deliver high-caliber marketing programs and community involvement initiatives that successfully highlight Jacksonville International Airport, our three general aviation airports and the Northeast Florida area.”

This year, nearly 50 airports and airport authorities submitted a record 250 entries in the contest, which encompasses categories that recognize work in marketing and public relations, and provides airports the opportunity to be honored for the quality of their work.  Awards are distributed in 20 categories ranging from brochures, advertising, marketing and public relations campaigns, newsletters, special events, video and film productions, to social media campaigns and websites. Again this year, communications and marketing professionals from the U.S. and Canada served as judges to review contest entries.

“ACI-NA congratulates the winners of the2012 Excellence in Airport Marketing and Communications Contest,” said ACI-NA President Greg Principato. “Each year, this highly competitive contest provides airports a platform to showcase their best marketing and communications efforts that serve their stakeholders, as well as the traveling public, airlines, and other tenants. It has become increasingly important for airports to convey the message that they are important economic engines within their respective communities.”

For more information about JAA,visit www.flyjacksonville.com.

May, 29, 2012

New direct service to Tampa offers convenient connections to Key West and Pensacola

The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) today announced that Silver Airways, operating under the United Airlines code, will begin daily scheduled service from Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) to Tampa International Airport (TPA) on August 13, 2012.

The new Jacksonville flights to Tampa are now on sale at a special introductory rate of just $39 each-way, plus taxes and service charges.

Three new daily flights offer direct service between Jacksonville and Tampa, creating convenient one-stop connections for passengers traveling from Jacksonville to Key West and Pensacola.

Flights will operate three times per-day Monday through Friday and twice-daily on weekends.

April 18, 2012

The Jacksonville Aviation Authority today welcomed its newest tenant to Cecil Airport – KCI Aviation – during a groundbreaking ceremony on a new hangar and office facility.

KCI Aviation, a West Virginia-based maintenance and repair organization specializing in corporate aircraft, is expanding its business in the Southeast with the expansion at Cecil Airport.

“Expanding at Cecil Airport provides us the room to grow our business in the southeastern market,” said Chuck Koukoulis, KCI Aviation President. “In Jacksonville, we will have the ideal aircraft maintenance facility coupled with a highly trained, talented and experienced workforce. It’s the best place to grow our business.”

KCI Aviation currently has aircraft maintenance facilities in West Virginia and Oklahoma.

Construction on the new aircraft maintenance facility for KCI Aviation is expected to be completed in March 2013. The construction will include a parking lot, aircraft ramp space, and approximately 30,000 square feet of office, workshop and hangar space.

“We’re thrilled to welcome KCI Aviation to Cecil Airport,” said JAA Executive Director and CEO Steve Grossman. “We’re confident this partnership will be beneficial for KCI Aviation and for the future of Cecil Airport.”

KCI Aviation will join other aviation entities currently at Cecil Airport, including The Boeing Company, Flightstar Aircraft Services, Inc., Jacksonville Jetport, U.S. Coast Guard, Florida Army National Guard, US Customs & Border Protection, US Navy Fleet Readiness Center Southeast, LSI and Florida State College at Jacksonville Aviation Center of Excellence.

The Jacksonville AviationAuthority has received an ‘A’ rating from Fitch Ratings for its $157 million ofseries 2003 and its series 2006 airport revenue bonds for the JacksonvilleInternational Airport.

According to Fitch’s report,the Authority received this rating due to its flat-to-decreasing debt serviceprofile, moderate cost recovery framework, midsized origination/destinationenplanement base, modest capital program, and manageable leverage and adequateliquidity.

Though enplanements are downthis fiscal year, Fitch Ratings said the airport’s importance in the First Coastarea along with the region’s growth prospects make for a high travel demand inthe future.

“We’re very pleased thatFitch has affirmed our ‘A’ rating,” said Richard Rossi, JAA’s Chief FinancialOfficer. “The affirmation of our credit rating is a reflection of JAA’soperations and our emphasis on controlling costs in the current economicenvironment.”

Less than half of theairport’s cash flow comes from the airlines. Parking and concession make up therest of the operating revenue.

The moderately sized capitalprogram totals $144.3 million through 2016 which will be mostly funded byairport revenue and grants.

Jacksonville Aviation Authority’s Cecil Airport has been recognized by the Federal Aviation Administration Southern Region for its efforts in safety. Awards are based on the development and implementation of specific programs, or other accomplishments, that resulted in improved safety.

Cecil Airport put into practice several programs that improved the safety of the airport including the design and execution of a Safety Management System (SMS) program, an Annual Safety Fair, a Wildlife Hazard Assessment, and an overview of the airport’s safety initiatives and accomplishments.

Cecil Airport is the first general aviation airport to design and execute a Safety Management System (SMS) program, which undoubtedly helped to secure the award in the Southeast.

"The Cecil Airport team is outstanding, and richly deserves this award," said Winsome A. Lenfert, Airports Division Manager, FAA Southern Region. "Under Rusty Chandler's leadership, they maintain a strong forward-looking focus on safety in all aspects of airport operations."

“We are thrilled to receive this prestigious award,” said Rusty Chandler, Cecil Airport Manager. “With management’s vision, employee knowledge and training, tenant participation and community involvement, Cecil Airport effectively enhanced its safety culture via implementation of various airport programs, improvements and initiatives.”

The Southern Region is comprised of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. According to the 2011-2015 National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems Report, this region is home to approximately 428 general aviation and 55 reliever airports.

January 25, 2012

The Jacksonville Aviation Authority Board of Directors has accepted a grant from the Florida Department of Transportation to conduct an Environmental Assessment, which will examine the environmental impacts and investigate the feasibility of the operation of a Concept 'Y' Horizontal Launch - Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) at Cecil Spaceport.

While Concept 'X' and Concept 'Z' Vehicles take-off using the typical turbojet engines to reach a predetermined location and altitude before igniting a rocket engine, Concept 'Y' Vehicles are powered by a rocket engine for the entire span of their operation.

In January 2010, after completing the original Environmental Assessment and Launch Site Operator's License application process, JAA was issued a Commercial Spaceport license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The license allows the airport to accommodate 52 horizontal takeoffs annually of sub-orbital horizontal launch vehicles.

“While preparing the original Spaceport Environmental Assessment for Cecil Spaceport, the Concept ‘Y’ Vehicle was not included as a result of a lack of available performance data and proprietary nature of existing data,” said Todd Lindner, JAA Senior Manager-Aviation Planning and Spaceport Development. “With the continuing evolution of the Concept ‘Y’ Vehicle, more performance-based data has become available, which will be used for incorporation into the environmental analysis.”

Lindner added that JAA does not anticipate significant environmental impacts will occur as a result of the operation of the Concept 'Y' Vehicle. Once the Environmental Assessment is complete, JAA plans to modify the existing Launch Site Operators License to incorporate the Concept 'Y' Vehicle.

Cecil Airport is one of 12 Commercial Spaceports in the United States, one of eight maintaining licensed horizontal launch capabilities, and the only one in Florida.

January 23, 2012

The Jacksonville Aviation Authority Board of Directors today approved a lease with KCI Aviation for the construction of a new 30,000-square-foot hangar facility at Cecil Airport.

“We are extremely excited to expand our operations to Jacksonville and Cecil Airport,” said Charles A. Koukoulis, president and CEO of KCI Aviation. “Jacksonville has a great business-friendly environment, and Cecil is truly a diamond in the rough. It’s geographically well located and has ample land and facilities for our company’s growth potential. Strategically, it’s perfect for our business model.”

Helping companies fulfill their business needs is a priority emphasized by Florida Secretary of Commerce, Gray Swoope, who serves as president & CEO of Enterprise Florida, the state’s principal economic development organization. “KCI’s expansion to Jacksonville demonstrates Florida’s ability to provide the right site and infrastructure that companies need to maximize their operations,” Swoope said. “We welcome KCI to our business community and will value the company’s contributions to our economic growth.”

KCI, which is based in Bridgeport, WV, specializes in inspection, maintenance and repair of business jets and turbo-props, notably those powered by Pratt and Whitney engines. KCI plans to hire a minimum of 30 workers by the end of 2014 with an approximate average annual wage of $46,000.

Construction of the new hangar and office facility is expected to begin in March with an anticipated completion date in early 2013.

“This is great news for Cecil Airport and Jacksonville,” said Steve Grossman, JAA’s Chief Executive Officer. “KCI Aviation is exactly the type of aerospace tenant we are trying to attract to Cecil. They are an excellent fit with our existing base of commercial and military clients.”

“Aviation and aerospace is a growing industry in Northeast Florida and plays a significant role in our local economy,” said Jerry Mallot, president of JAXUSA Partnership. “We welcome KCI Aviation and the new jobs and investment the company is creating in our community.”

Aviation and aerospace development is a targeted industry sector for both the State of Florida and City of Jacksonville. The state and city agreed to support the expansion of the company and associated new high-wage aerospace jobs by pledging expansion location assistance that will be awarded following the commencement of operations and creation of the promised new jobs.

Cecil Airport, a former Navy master jet base, consists of 6,000-plus acres, nearly 50 buildings, including 12 hangars, and a 12,500-foot main runway, one of the longest in Florida. Cecil is also the only licensed horizontal launch commercial spaceport on the East Coast.

Cecil Airport tenants include The Boeing Company, LSI, Pratt & Whitney – Woods Group, Flightstar Aircraft Services, Florida Army National Guard, Naval Air Systems Command Fleet Readiness Center Southeast, L-3 Com, U.S. Coast Guard, Florida State College at Jacksonville, Jacksonville JetPort and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

In an effort to grow its estimated $2.9 billion annual impact on the local economy and to increase its estimated support for more than 30,000 local aviation-related jobs, the Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) continues to place an importance on the local business community. On June 21, 2010, JAA demonstrated their support of local businesses by formally adopting its Local Preference Program to encourage local businesses to participate in JAA’s competitive contract awards process.

During the first full year of program implementation, the Jacksonville Aviation Authority poured $29.1 million into the local economy through direct contracting relationships with local businesses. That’s 75 percent of JAA’s $38.7 million in total direct contract awards, which is up from 60 percent in fiscal year 2009.

“These contracting dollars are spent locally and generate business opportunities beyond the value of JAA’s direct contracts,” said JAA’s Executive Director/CEO Steve Grossman. “Each additional dollar circulated locally results in increased economic activity, employment growth and retention and increased tax revenue.”

While only a few contracts have been determined by the program, it has encouraged more participation by local businesses and out of town businesses that sub-contract with local companies. JAA established the Local Preference Program for businesses that have:

1. Maintained a “permanent place of business” in Baker, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Nassau, Putnam, or St. Johns counties for at least one year prior to the solicitation for which preference is sought; and

2. At least three full-time employees who reside in the listed market area.

There are three types of preferences enjoyed by local businesses under the program, which include: (1) a five percent bid reduction preference on competitive bids; (2) a five point preference on evaluated bids or proposals; and (3) a tie-breaker preference.

Teresa H. Davlantes, Vice Dean of Florida Coastal School of Law, has been appointed to the Jacksonville Aviation Authority Board of Directors by Gov. Rick Scott.

Davlantes, 53, of Jacksonville, succeeds Deborah Pass-Durham for a four-year term ending September 30, 2015. The appointment is subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.

Davlantes has served as vice dean of Coastal Law School since 2005. From 2000 to 2005, she served in a variety of other roles at the Jacksonville law school, including interim associate academic dean, assistant academic dean, legal writing specialist and lawyering process instructor. Davlantes has also served on the Youth Crisis Center Board of Directors since 2009.

She received her bachelor’s and law degrees from the University of Florida and a Six Sigma Green Belt Certificate from Villanova University.

December 29, 2011

The Jacksonville Aviation Authority, in conjunction with Priva Technologies, announced today it will launch Flex, a new customer service for expedited access to airport security checkpoints, at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) on Friday, December 30, 2011. This service is in addition to, and does not replace, the existing Preferred Passenger Lane, which allows expedited checkpoint access for premier or first class travelers.

Flex card holders and day-pass participants will get consistent, front-of-line access to the TSA ID check at airport screening checkpoints. Flex membership is through an online application at www.Go-Flex.com beginning Friday, December 30. Participants do not have to submit to background checks or provide biometric information.

Flex participants can choose either an annual membership at $150 or a one day pass at $20, depending on their travel needs. For a limited time, during the JAX launch period, a special introductory rate will be available at $100 for the annual membership. Family and corporate plans are also available by contacting Flex. Additionally, former Registered Traveler members are eligible for a special offer at a reduced price.

“Providing an outstanding, innovative airport experience for our passengers is a top priority and Flex will provide a new level of convenience. We are pleased to be working with Priva Technologies to bring Flex to Jacksonville,” said Steve Grossman, Executive Director/CEO of the Jacksonville Aviation Authority.

Charles Chambers, of Priva Technologies’, Inc., noted, “We are thrilled about the opportunity to work with the Jacksonville Aviation Authority to launch Flex at JAX and look forward to announcing similar agreements with other U.S. airports in the near future.”

For enrollment, membership fees, and more information visit www.Go-Flex.com.

About Priva Technologies, Inc.: Priva Technologies, Inc. (Priva) develops and provides advanced authentication technologies and transaction processing solutions to the aviation, government, enterprise, and consumer markets. Priva collaborates with airports as well as value-added resellers, consultants, and technology providers to leverage the combined experience, insight, and resources needed to deliver robust solutions quickly and economically. Priva has been recognized by the U.S. Government for its security technology, its unique “trust” system, and its ability to deliver.

The Jacksonville Aviation Authority is preparing for the Christmas holiday travel season by opening Economy Lot 3 at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) from the afternoon of December 22, through January 3, or until the lot fills up, for a flat fee of $20. The fee is payable with cash or credit card upon entry.

This special event lot will operate on a first-come first-serve basis and may close without notice. Free shuttle service is available during the time the lot is open. Vehicles that remain in Economy Lot 3 after January 3, 2012, will be towed at the owner’s expense.

Travelers should arrive at least two hours before their flight to allow additional time to locate parking if the first parking choice is not available.

Other parking options include Economy Lots 1 and 2 ($4.00 per day), Daily Surface Lot ($8.00 per day), Daily Garage ($14.00 per day) or the Hourly Garage ($18.00 per day). All prices include tax.

JAA recommends that travelers who meet and greet their families/friends use the hourly garage ($1.50/20 minutes), if available. Another option is to wait in the free courtesy waiting lot, located next to the JAA’s administration building, until family/friends arrive.

Travelers may also join the JAX Passport program; a new frequent parker program at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) that offers parking rewards and discounts to program participants.

For more information about the parking options at JAX, please contact the parking office at (904) 741.2277. To sign up for JAX Passport, visit JAX's Parking Information web page.

For more information about JAA, visit www.flyjacksonville.com.

December 7, 2011

Program provides free parking and discounts for frequent parkers

The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) announced the launch of “JAX Passport,” a new frequent parker program at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) that offers parking rewards and discounts to program participants.

“Jacksonville International Airport has a large number of frequent flyer customers who regularly use our parking facilities,” said Michael Stewart, Director of External Affairs at JAA. “We’re happy to reward these loyal customers with extra perks to show our appreciation for their business.”

The JAX Passport program allows seamless entry and exit through all parking lots and offers a point system for earning free parking in all lots except valet. Discounts are also available to JAX Passport members from businesses located both inside and outside of the airport terminal. Just show your JAX Passport card to receive the discount.

The rewards program is a tier system that offers one day of free parking for accrued points. Flyers earn 10 points for every dollar spent in the lots.

? 400 points = One free day in the economy lots
? 800 points = One free day in the daily surface lot
? 1200 points = One free day in the daily garage
? 1800 points = One free day in the hourly garage

Travelers may register for the JAX Passport program, check their account status and view participating discount partners at www.flyjax.com. Members can print receipts and view current points at their convenience.

The cost for the program is a one-time $20 fee for the card.

Sign up today and start earning reward points toward free parking!

The Jacksonville Aviation Authority is preparing for the Thanksgiving holiday travel season by opening the Economy Lot 3 at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) from November 23, through November 30, or until the lot fills up, for a flat fee of $20. The fee is payable with cash or credit card upon entry.

This special event lot will operate on a first-come first-serve basis and may close without notice. Free shuttle service is available during the time the lot is open. Vehicles that remain in Economy Lot 3 after November 30 will be towed at the owner’s expense.

Travelers should arrive at least two hours before their flight to allow additional time to locate parking since the first parking choice may not be available.

Other parking options include Economy Lots 1 and 2 ($4.00 per day), Daily Surface Lot ($8.00 per day), Daily Garage ($14.00 per day) or the Hourly Garage ($18.00 per day). All prices include tax.

JAA recommends that travelers who meet and greet their families/friends use the hourly garage, if available. Another option is to wait in the free courtesy waiting lot, located next to the JAA’s administration building, until family/friends arrive.

For more information about the parking options at JAX, please contact the parking office at (904) 741.2277, or visit JAX's Parking Information web page.

For more information about JAA, visit www.flyjacksonville.com.

The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) announced that it added the WebTrak Flight-Tracking and Noise Information system to the Jacksonville Executive at Craig Airport (JAXEX) page of the JAA website.

WebTrak is a system that allows individuals to watch the movement of flights to, from and overflying all four airports in the Jacksonville Aviation Authority’s system, Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), Cecil Airport, Jacksonville Executive at Craig Airport (JAXEX) and Herlong Recreational Airport. Displayed information includes the aircraft’s beacon code, altitude, and the point of closest approach to a designated address. In addition, if the aircraft filed a flight plan, aircraft type, registration number, originating and destination airports are displayed. Military, law enforcement and other government aircraft are not trackable and will not be displayed on Webtrak.

Flight and aircraft radar data originate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) ARTS radar system at the JAX TRACON facility at JAX. The data is then down loaded and processed by JAA’s Airport Noise and Operations Monitoring System (ANOMS). The FAA requires at least a 15 minute delay for aviation security reasons and for system processing. Historical data goes back up to 90 days. If needed, further research can be conducted using portable noise monitoring terminals (NMTs) set up in neighborhoods.

“We recognize that it is important for us to connect with the community surrounding our airports,” said JAA Executive Director and CEO Steve Grossman. “We want our neighboring residents to have this tool so they can report any issues in their area to us.”

If a resident wishes to report a noise event, he/she may log on to the WebTrak system to view flights that may have created the noise disturbance and submit an online complaint to JAA.

For more information about the system or JAA, visit www.flyjaxex.com.

JAA to Reflect on Past Decade’s Changes and Successes as Independent Entity

Oct. 24, 2011 – The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) is pleased to announce the beginning of a year-long celebration of its 10-year anniversary as an independent agency since the separation from Jacksonville Port Authority (JAXPORT) in 2001.

“Over the past decade we have continually adapted to changing economic and aviation industry challenges,” said JAA Chair Chester Aikens. “Today is a day for us to look back and reflect on all of the authority’s significant accomplishments, and at the same time look ahead to the many opportunities that await us.”

The JAA’s four-airport aviation system is comprised of Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), Jacksonville Executive at Craig Airport (JAXEX), Herlong Recreational Airport, and Cecil Airport. Together, these four community assets are economic engines for the entire region.

Last year alone, the four airports had an approximate $2.9 billion impact on the local economy and supported more than 29,000 aviation-related jobs. JAA also underwent a major rebranding campaign in 2010 to feature a new logo for all four airports and a name change for JAXEX (formerly known as Craig Airport). These changes were implemented to better represent the different airports as one diverse system and to better reflect the role of JAXEX in the four-airport system since it largely provides services to business travelers.

Jacksonville International Airport, which is the gateway to the Northeast Florida for many travelers, has been transformed from an outdated terminal to a world-class facility that offers an array of amenities including: free Wi-Fi, convenient and economical parking options, an award-winning public art program, live music, on-site rental cars, a free courtesy waiting lot for those picking up passengers and a wide variety of shopping and dining options to travelers. New programs such as the Preferred Passenger Lane for frequent flyers and JAX Passport for frequent parkers were also put into effect at JAX.

In addition to the upgrades and advancements at JAX, JAA has also put in enormous efforts at Cecil Airport to redevelop the airport from an old naval-air station into the fully functioning industrial-type airport and newly licensed spaceport that it is today.

“We’ve grown tremendously as an organization over the past decade,” said JAA Executive Director and CEO, Steve Grossman. “Since our separation from JAXPORT, we have had to manage challenges that came with adapting to operations in a post- 9/11 world as well as overcome obstacles from a weakened economy. We viewed these events as opportunities to succeed and show what JAA is capable of. We have exciting plans to continue to grow and expand for the future.”

Future plans include continued upgrades JAX such as the eventual construction of a third concourse to handle expected passenger growth. At Cecil Airport there are also extensive expansion plans to add more hangars and office space and develop the north side of the main runway.

Airport system places in Nationally Recognized Industry Marketing and Communications Contest

JACKSONVILLE, Oct. 20, 2011 – The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) announced that it received three Excellence in Airport Marketing & Communications awards at this year’s  annual Airports Council International (ACI)– North America conference held in San Diego.

The JAA’s four-airport system received 2^nd place in the websites category and 3^rd place in the television advertising and video categories.

Now in its 20^th year, the Airports Council International – North America’s Excellence in Airport Marketing & Communications contest had 175 individual entries from over 40 airport members in the U.S. and Canada.

“We’re so pleased to have placed in three categories this year,” said JAA Executive Director and CEO Steve Grossman. “Our marketing and communications team has done extensive work updating our website and television advertising. We’re very proud of their efforts.”

Last year, JAA unveiled a new branding campaign designed to build better awareness of the city’s vibrant aviation system. The branding campaign includes a new overall logo for the authority, new logos for each of its four airports, the renaming of three of the airports and new websites. JAA was created in 2001 by the Florida Legislature and has been using the same brand identity since then.

For the full list of the 2011 North America’s 2011 Excellence in Airport Marketing & Communications contest winners, visit http://bit.ly/pl1TQm.

For more information about JAX, visit www.flyjacksonville.com.

Jacksonville Aviation Authority today elected Dr. Chester Aikens as chairman for the 2011-2012 fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1.

Aikens, a practicing dentist who was appointed to the JAA in 2007 by former Mayor John Peyton, replaces Ernie Isaac Jr. as chairman. Isaac continues to serve as a board member.

“As the Jacksonville Aviation Authority gets ready to celebrate its 10th anniversary I am honored to be selected as the next chairman,” Aikens said. “JAA has accomplished many significant milestones over the past decade. And while our business is not without challenges, I look forward to chairing the authority and working with my fellow board members and JAA staff as we continue to grow our four-airport system and provide jobs and economic stability to our region.”

The other newly elected officers include A.L. Kelly as vice chairman, Ron Weaver as secretary and Deborah Pass-Durham as treasurer.

The board is comprised of seven members. Three members are appointed by Jacksonville’s mayor while the other four are appointed by the governor of Florida. Each board member may serve two consecutive 4-year terms.

The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) announced that the number of passengers traveling through Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) advanced nearly 4 percent in July.

During the month ended July 31, the total number of passengers departing and arriving at JAX was 531,390, a 3.95 percent increase over July 2010. The current year-to-date number of passengers through the end of July was 3.3 million, a slight 0.2 percent decrease over the same 12-month period a year earlier.

The total number of daily departures at JAX in July was 105. That’s a 7 percent increase over the 98 daily departures in July 2010.

“During these tumultuous economic times, it’s encouraging to report an uptick in monthly passenger traffic,” said Michael Stewart, Director of External Affairs for the JAA. “We are particularly pleased that JetBlue’s new daily service to San Juan, which began in May, has been exceeding expectations. And while it’s only been a couple of months since Southwest began non-stop service to Denver, indications are it’s off to a good start.”

As passenger traffic picks up, customers can enjoy amenities at the airport such as free wi-fi, a preferred traveler lane through security, premier and frequent parker programs. Improvements to the terminal continue as all the carpeting is being removed and new terrazzo flooring installed.

June 13, 2011

The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) announced that it received support from the State of Florida in its efforts to transform Cecil Airport into a 21st century commercial spaceport when Space Florida officially designated Cecil as a “Space Territory” on June 9.

The Space Territory designation affords a number of opportunities. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) now has legal authority to fund spaceport-related transportation facilities within Cecil to better accommodate horizontal launch space travel.

Cecil recently received grant funds from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the development of a Spaceport Master Plan. Combined with Space Florida’s decision, JAA will now be able to pursue funds to design and construct new roadways, taxiways, and assembly and payload facilities.

"The JAA’s strategic development of Cecil Airport received a major boost when the Space Florida Board, under the leadership of Lieutenant Governor Jennifer Carroll, approved the resolution designating it as a Space Territory,” said Michael Stewart, JAA’s Director of External Affairs. “This designation places Cecil on the map to be a catalyst for job creation, and positions northeast Florida to carve out a niche in the aerospace industry. We are optimistic about horizontal lift commercial space opportunities at Cecil upon completion of our Spaceport Master Plan later this fall."

In conjunction with being named a space territory, JAA was also notified by the FDOT that Cecil Spaceport has been approved as a planned Strategic Intermodal System (SIS) facility. SIS facilities are instrumental in linking multiple modes of transportation throughout the state. SIS allows the state to fund portions of infrastructure projects which are instrumental in connecting modes of transportation.

“As a space territory, additional funding sources are available for the continued development of Cecil spaceport as a facility for the operation of horizontal-reusable launch vehicles (RLVs),” said Todd Lindner, JAA’s Senior Manager of Aviation Planning and Development. “With space programs developing in places such as the United Arab Emirates, China and India, the use of these RLVs is expected to increase dramatically.”

The design and construction of additional support facilities at Cecil Spaceport will also bring a much needed economic boost to the region in the form of jobs and aerospace businesses. The space program at Cecil will be able to support civil, military, and commercial launches and accommodate space tourism.

Tips for summer airline travel:

• Remember the 3-1-1 rule. Liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in 3 ounce or smaller containers placed in a 1-quart, clear, plastic, zip-top bag. Each passenger may have 1 bag that is to be placed in a plastic bin for screening for carry-on luggage. Larger bottles may be packed in checked luggage.

• Prepare for screening. This includes: avoiding wearing clothing with metal on it, wearing easily removable footwear, having boarding pass and ID readily accessible for viewing, and following the 3-1-1 rule.

• Arrive early. Arrival time recommendations vary by airline and day of travel, so be sure to check with the air carrier. Standard airline recommendations include arriving one hour before domestic flights and two hours before international flights. Check the status of your flight before leaving home to check for any delays.

Frequent flyers and business travelers possessing boarding passes that read “first class” or “business class” may also utilize the Preferred Passenger Lane available at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) to shorten their security screening time.

Another option put in place to help aid in the security screening process is the Family Lane offered at JAX. This lane allows families with small children and travelers with special needs to go through security at their own pace.

Parking at the airport is a bargain in the economy lots, with daily rates of $4, and the daily surface lot, with a daily rate of $8. Free shuttle service is available 24/7. Additional options for the business traveler include premier parking and valet parking.

Those waiting to pick up passengers can use the FREE courtesy waiting lot located adjacent to the JAA’s administration building. The flight information display board informs you of arriving flights, and you’re just about 2 minutes from the arrival curb.

For more information about JAX, visit www.flyjacksonville.com. For more information about TSA, visit www.tsa.gov.

June 6, 2011

Southwest Airlines began new daily nonstop service between Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) and Denver International Airport (DEN) on Sunday, June 5.

Southwest Airlines’ one daily nonstop flight between Jacksonville and Denver departs Jacksonville at 7 a.m., Sunday through Friday, and the return flight departs Denver at 5:55 p.m. On Saturdays, the flight to Denver will leave Jacksonville at 11:55 a.m. and return from Denver at 6 p.m.

“This new service greatly enhances air travel out west and we anticipate the flight will be greeted favorably by both leisure travelers heading to ski resorts and business travelers,” said Steve Grossman, JAA’s Executive Director and CEO. “In addition, this service provides excellent connections to central California and the Pacific Northwest.”

For more information about JAX, visit www.flyjacksonville.com. For more information about Southwest Airlines, visit www.southwest.com.

View photos of the water cannon salute at http://www.flickr.com/photos/jaxairport/sets/72157626899221732/

May 19, 2011

JetBlue Airways began daily nonstop service between Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) and Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan today, offering regional travelers new options to reach the Caribbean and Latin America.

The new JetBlue route is the first daily nonstop service between Jacksonville and the island of Puerto Rico. The one daily flight departs Jacksonville at 10:23 a.m. and returns from San Juan at 5:45 p.m.

This new non-stop service is the result of four years hard work between the Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA), city representatives and members of the business community.

“We have been trying to land service to Puerto Rico for several years and are pleased that JetBlue shares our vision,” Steve Grossman, Executive Director and CEO of the Jacksonville Aviation Authority said. “With the community’s support, this is the first step towards opening up additional markets in the Caribbean and Latin America.”
The Jacksonville business community has long had ties with Puerto Rico. More than 75 percent of all trade between the U.S. mainland and Puerto Rico moves through Jacksonville, making it the number one port in the country for trade with the island.
There is also a growing connection between the cities for medical tourism. According to the Jacksonville branch of the Mayo Clinic, 16 percent of international patients come from Puerto Rico, more than any other country.
“This connection creates a welcome opportunity on both sides of the service,” said JAXPORT Chief Executive Officer Paul Anderson. “Making access easier allows Jacksonville business to strengthen already strong ties with Puerto Rico and it is a clear win for all of us.”
In October 2009, Jacksonville Mayor John Peyton signed an agreement with the mayor of San Juan, Jorge Santini, uniting their municipalities as "Sister Cities." With this new flight connection, the cities can continue their great exchange of commerce, ideas, culture, entertainment and business strategies. The new flights will also offer families in Puerto Rico and on the mainland greater access to one another.
“This is an exciting day for both of our cities, as it is the culmination of us closely working together to develop non-stop flight service between San Juan and Jacksonville,” said Jacksonville Mayor John Peyton. “This new connection signifies the future increased tourism, Sister City cultural exchanges and important expanded economic development and business opportunities that having a direct link to Puerto Rico, Jacksonville’s number one trading partner, will provide.”
Mayor Santini also expressed his satisfaction for the service and emphasized that the alliance will be an advantageous one that will benefit the citizens of Puerto Rico and their families while also being a stimulus for San Juan’s tourism industry.

“The daily JetBlue flight to Puerto Rico is evidence of the cooperative agreement between our two cities for mutual benefit, in order to explore and create opportunities in educational and cultural programs for the development of new business initiatives,” Mayor Santini said.

“We’re very proud to finally bring the ‘Sister Cities’ together with our daily flight from Jacksonville to San Juan; we have the great community support behind this initiative to thank for it,” said Scott Laurence, vice president of network planning for JetBlue. “Connecting communities, whether it’s for business or leisure, is what it’s all about.”

Connecting through San Juan, travelers also have new options to reach destinations throughout the Caribbean. On April 14, Jetblue announced plans to launch nonstop daily service from San Juan to St. Maarten, making it their second intra-Caribbean route. This service is scheduled to begin on November 17. Jetblue service currently exists between San Juan and Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
To view photos from the San Juan inaugural flight, visit our Flickr photo gallery at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jaxairport/sets/72157626633149479/

March 29, 2011

The Jacksonville Aviation Authority and the Jacksonville International Airport Arts Commission are proud to present SKY BRIDGES, an aerial sculpture and the 13th addition to the JAA permanent art collection.

SKY BRIDGES, by artists Melanie Walker and George Peters of Airworks Studio, is now hanging from the ceiling of JAX’s newly renovated connector bridge. The aerial sculpture works with the architecture of the connector bridge to amplify the natural light in the bridge’s skylight areas. The arcs in the work relate to the air flight paths of take offs and landings and the structure is reminiscent of the many bridges which are landmarks in the Jacksonville area. The forms literally float in the space by multiple thin suspension cables fanned toward the upper skylight beams.

Kites and Flights, more artwork by Walker and Peters, will be on display in the Haskell Art Gallery through June 2011. Kites and Flights uses kites to depict a variety of flying objects including birds, insects, leaves in the wind, clouds, airplanes, balloons, and rockets.

“Our new public artwork at JAX is a great way to welcome travelers and enhance the ambiance at our airport,” said JAA Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director Steve Grossman. “Artistic displays such as SKY BRIDGES help put Jacksonville on the map as a unique and modern airport that provides travelers with an unforgettable experience.”

Artists Melanie Walker and George Peters were selected by the JAX Arts Commission from among about 150 responding artists. The pair joined together in 1995 to form Boulder, Colorado-based Airworks Studio where they make a wide variety of public art works based on aerial themes including banner works, mobiles, wind sculptures and suspended installations.

View photos on our Flickr account:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/jaxairport/sets/72157626168314549/

March 11, 2011

The Jacksonville Aviation Authority announced that beginning March 15, 2011, curbside valet customers at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) will be able to receive their boarding pass at the curbside valet booth.
Valet customers can contact Air Valet with their name and confirmation number or use the Air Valet online reservation system (www.airvalet.aero). At the valet booth, customers will be issued their boarding pass and can then continue on to the gate or to the airline ticket counter to check any luggage. The new service is a collaboration between Air Valet and Air IT, an industry leader in passenger check-in solutions throughout the country.
“The boarding pass option is yet another example of our commitment to make the Jacksonville International Airport valet service the airport industry leader in consistent, high-level customer service,” said AmeriPark Chief Executive Officer, Chip Patterson.
Along with the new service, AirValet offers their customers vehicle detailing. The daily rate for curbside valet is $22.
For more information on the new service or other valet parking programs, please contact the Air Valet office at (904) 741-1005.

JACKSONVILLE, February 1, 2011 – The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) is pleased to announce that JetBlue Airways will be using Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) as its 31st inbound and outbound cargo station beginning tomorrow, February 2, 2011.

In an effort to grow their cargo network, JetBlue chose JAX due to the frequency of travel to New York’s John F. Kennedy International (JFK) and Boston’s Logan (BOS) airports, allowing for seamless cargo transfers at these airports’ onwards to more than 20 destinations. In addition, JetBlue will begin daily direct service between Jacksonville and Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) in San Juan, Puerto Rico, in May 2011.

“We’re pleased JetBlue is expanding and investing in our airport at an even greater level,” said JAA Executive Director and CEO Steve Grossman. “This is a great show of confidence in Jacksonville by JetBlue.”

“We are very excited to open our newest cargo station in Jacksonville to meet the growing delivery needs of our customer base,” said Carl Shipsky, manager of system cargo sales at JetBlue. “With this new direct service, we now provide affordable and dependable shipping services to the Northeast via New York and Boston, as well as convenient cargo transfer options to destinations across our network. In May, we will also have the ability to provide customers with a great option to move cargo to and from San Juan rather than some of the other more congested Southeastern airports.” 

JetBlue generally offers three daily nonstop flights from JAX to JFK and daily nonstop service to BOS.  One direct daily flight to SJU begins May 19.

Jacksonville International Airport Passenger Traffic up 3% in December

JACKSONVILLE, January 25, 2010 – The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) announced the number of passengers traveling through Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) rose 3 percent in December, making it the fourth consecutive month for passenger increase at the airport.

The total number of passengers last month was 455,148. That’s 12,524 more passengers as compared to those who passed through JAX in December 2009.

“These numbers are very encouraging, and we look forward to a new year that will provide more travel options for our customers at JAX,” said JAA Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director, Steve Grossman.

Additional service in 2011 includes Delta and American Eagle Airlines’ flights to Miami, Florida, JetBlue’s service to Puerto Rico and Southwest’s service to Denver, Colorado.

Nine daily departures were added by major carriers since December 2009 for a total of 93 daily departures by December 2010. The number of available daily seats on major carriers increased by more than 1,000 to a final total of 10,743 during the same time period.

JAA’s general aviation airports also experienced an upswing in operations traffic (landings and takeoffs) during year end. The number of operations at Jacksonville Executive at Craig Airport rose more than 10%. Cecil Airport posted a nearly 10% increase in its activities during the month of December.

Fuel sales are the best indicator of operations activity at JAA’s Herlong Recreational Airport. Herlong saw a 7% increase in fuel sales for October, November, and December, over the same period in 2009.

New Rates will Encourage use of all Parking Facilities /JAA Board Approves New Name for Craig Airport

JACKSONVILLE, January 24, 2010 – The Jacksonville Aviation Authority today approved a parking rate adjustment at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) for the first time since June 2007.

The rate adjustments will become effective on February 1, 2011. The new rates are intended to encourage customers to utilize all parking facilities at JAX, and free up more spaces in the Hourly Garage for use by meeters and greeters.

JAA board members also approved the renaming of Craig Airport to Jacksonville Executive at Craig Airport.
The rates for the Daily Surface Parking and Economy lots 1 and 2 will be lowered by $2, while the parking rate for Economy lot 3 will be lowered by $5. The Hourly Garage and Daily Garage rates will each see a $2 increase.
The incremental rates in the garages and daily surface parking lot will remain the same at $1.50 per 20 minutes, or any portion thereof.

 “We want to make sure that there are convenient and affordable parking options for all of our customers at JAX,” said JAA Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director, Steve Grossman. “We hope that these adjusted rates will offer a wider variety of parking options for our customers.”

Along with the new rates, the JAA will be introducing a Frequent Parker Program to JAX customers in the spring which will offer free parking with earned points. The JAA will also continue to grow its Premier Parking for business travelers due to the overwhelming response to the program.

JAX has a public parking facility capacity of approximately 8,724 parking spaces, which are comprised of two garages, one surface lot and three economy lots.

For more information on the new rates or parking programs, please contact the parking office at (904)741-2277.

JAA Announces Significant Increase in Passenger and Cargo Traffic


JACKSONVILLE, December 14, 2010- The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) today announced that the number of passengers traveling through Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) rose 8 percent in November.

The total number of passengers last month was 472,778. That’s 35,021 more passengers as compared to those who passed through JAX in November 2009.

“This increase in passenger traffic is a good sign for the commercial aviation industry and our local economy,” said Michael Stewart, Director of External Affairs for the JAA. “We are hopeful these numbers continue to keep up through the busy holiday season and throughout the new year as airlines have actually added new flights to our JAX flight schedule in 2011.”

Additional service beginning in 2011 includes Delta and American Eagle Airlines’ flights to Miami, Florida, JetBlue’s service to Puerto Rico and Southwest’s service to Denver, Colorado.

Total cargo traffic at JAX also increased more than 13 percent last month.

JACKSONVILLE, FL - Dec. 13, 2010 – The Jacksonville Aviation Authority today announced special low parking rates at Jacksonville International Airport this Holiday Season.
  
Effective today through January 16, 2011, the rate for Daily Surface Parking Lot will be reduced to $8 a day, down from $10.

In addition, the Economy Lot 3 will be open beginning December 23.  For a flat fee of $20, which is $5 lower than last year’s special, customers may park until January 4, 2011. The fee is payable with cash or credit card upon entry.

This special event lot will operate on a first-come first-serve basis and may close without notice. Free shuttle service is available 24/7 through January 4. Vehicles that remain in Economy Lot 3 after January 4 will be towed at the owner’s expense.

Travelers should arrive at least two hours before their flight to allow additional time to locate parking since the first parking choice may not be available.

Other parking options include Economy Lots 1 and 2 ($6.00 per day), Daily Garage ($12.00 per day) or the Hourly Garage ($16.00 per day). All prices include tax.

JAA recommends that travelers who meet and greet their families/friends use the hourly garage, if available. Another option is to wait in the free courtesy waiting lot, located next to the JAA’s administration building, until family/friends arrive.

For more information about the parking options at JAX, please contact the parking office at (904) 741.2277, or visit the website at http://www.flyjacksonville.com/content.aspx?id=14.

American Eagle Airlines adds additional Flights to Miami out of JAX

JACKSONVILLE, December 10, 2010 – The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) today announced that American Eagle Airlines has increased nonstop service between Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) and Miami International Airport (MIA), with the addition of two new flights effective April 5, 2011. American Eagle Airlines is the regional affiliate of American Airlines.

The additional flights will bring American Eagle’s daily departures from JAX to Miami to seven. American Eagle will operate its seven daily flights with a mix of 50-seat Embraer EMB-145 jets and 64-seat Super ATR aircraft.

  “This is great news for our region’s business and leisure air travelers,” said Michael Stewart, JAA’s Director of External Affairs. “Locally, there is a huge demand for service to Miami since it is a prime location for business and tourism. We’re thrilled American Eagle has added these flights to our schedule, which gives our customers even more travel choices to an international hub.”

JAA announced last month Delta Airlines will begin daily nonstop service between JAX and MIA beginning in March, 2011. Delta plans to operate four departures and arrivals each day between the two Florida cities.

With this latest addition, there will be 11 daily departures from Jacksonville to Miami.

For more information about JAX, visit www.flyjacksonville.com.  For more information about American Eagle, visit http://www.aa.com.

JAA Issues Tips for Air Travelers as Busy Thanksgiving Travel Season Nears

JACKSONVILLE, November 22, 2010 –The Jacksonville Aviation Authority today announced that October passenger traffic at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) was up for the second consecutive month.

During the month of October, JAX recorded a total of 483,403 passengers, a slight increase over the 476,984 passengers in October 2009. In September this year, the passenger count inched up 2.85% over the same month last year.

“The back-to-back monthly passenger gains at JAX are encouraging signs that the commercial aviation industry continues to show improvement,” said JAA Executive Director/CEO Steve Grossman. “These positive indicators coupled with our recent announcements of increased flight schedules from JetBlue, Southwest and Delta all bode well for the coming year.”

JetBlue announced service from Jacksonville to San Juan, Puerto Rico, while Delta Air Lines announced added flights from Jacksonville to Miami and Southwest announced a new non-stop flight from Jacksonville to Denver.

Meanwhile, JAA officials suggest travelers departing JAX this busy Thanksgiving holiday season should plan to arrive at the airport at least 1½ hours before their scheduled departure time. JAA has also introduced lower parking rates for the Special Events Economy 3 Lot during the Thanksgiving holiday.

Travelers are encouraged to call their airlines for flight information. Travelers can also get information about the airport and flights at JAA’s new, enhanced website at www.flyjacksonville.com.

For information about passenger security screening and restricted carryon items, visit the TSA website at www.tsa.gov.

Northeast Florida’s Leading Aviation System Unveils New Names and Logos

JACKSONVILLE, November 22, 2010 – In preparation for its 10-year anniversary next year and to highlight its many successes, the Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) today unveiled a new branding campaign designed to build better awareness of the city’s vibrant aviation system. 

The branding campaign includes a new overall logo for the authority, new logos for each of its four airports, the renaming of three of the airports and new websites. JAA was created in 2001 by the Florida Legislature and has been using the same brand identity since then. 

“The new ‘umbrella style’ logo concept integrates a more recognizable symbol of aviation while adding an element to represent each of the four airports in the system,” JAA Executive Director/CEO Steve Grossman said. “The connection to aviation in the old logo was less obvious and didn’t visually represent a four airport system icon”

The goal of the rebranding effort is to create a consistent brand across the four airports owned and operated by the Authority; Jacksonville International Airport, Cecil Field, Craig Airport and Herlong Airport. The rebranding effort will also be used as an opportunity to further educate the public about the distinctive differences between the four airports and the regional impact of the Authority.

Three of the four airports will be renamed as a result of the rebranding effort. Cecil Field will become Cecil Airport and Herlong Airport will become Herlong Recreational Airport. Craig Airport will be renamed Jacksonville Executive Airport (JAXEX) since its location not only makes air travel more accessible for executives, but also makes the Jacksonville business community more accessible to the world. 

“The branding effort is designed to communicate not just ‘who we are,’ but what our commitment is as an organization to the way we provide service, conduct business and contribute to the region as an economic engine,” JAA Board Chairman Ernest Isaac, Jr. said.  “With our 10th Anniversary as an independent Authority approaching, the time is ideal to communicate our solid record of performance and pledge our continued commitment to the pursuit of excellence well into the next decade and beyond.”

The Authority’s new logo system gives each airport its own unique identity while still fitting into a brand hierarchy for the JAA. The new logos include depictions of an airplane to symbolize the Authority, and a subtle nod to the bridges in Jacksonville that cross the St. Johns River.

The new brand will focus on the tagline; “Going Beyond, Daily.” This idea represents the mission of the JAA brand to serve Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia by positively impacting the economy, the community and the experiences of everyone who comes in contact with the JAA.  

“With this branding effort the goal is to introduce design and messaging that speak specifically to the region, capture the personality of each airport and the great spirit of JAA employees,” said John Montgomery, president of Big Communications, the consulting firm hired to guide JAA through the branding process. “We look forward to evolving the campaign over time to assist the Authority with its goals for the future.”

The JAA rebranding effort will be carried out through several phases over the next few years. The rebranding strategy includes changes in airport signage, purchased print and television media and new websites for the Authority and its four airports.

About the Jacksonville Aviation Authority  The Jacksonville Aviation Authority was established in 2001 by the Florida legislature to operate Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) and the city's three general aviation airports – Jacksonville Executive Airport (JAXEX), Herlong Recreational Airport (HEG) and Cecil Airport (VQQ). The Authority is governed by a seven-member board. Jacksonville International Airport – funded through user fees and not local taxes – serves over six million passengers annually. For more information about the Jacksonville Aviation Authority’s airports, please visit www.flyjacksonville.com 

Commercial Airline Representatives Depart JAX Better

Representatives from multiple commercial service airlines were in Jacksonville this past week enjoying a tour and overview of Northeast Florida. Participating airlines included Air Tran, American Eagle, Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines.

The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) hosted the three-day Airline Summit which began on Wednesday, November 3, and ended Friday, November 5. Mayor John Peyton and JAA’s CEO, Steve Grossman, opened the summit Thursday, November 4, during a breakfast meeting at The Lodge and Club at Ponte Vedra. Congressman Ander Crenshaw was the keynote speaker during lunch at the same venue.

Airline representatives toured Downtown Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and Jacksonville International Airport (JAX). The group also enjoyed a tour of EverBank Field.

The summit was designed to educate airline representatives about the Northeast Florida region. Points of focus included economic development, tourism, golf and the military presence in the area. Participants also engaged in a roundtable discussion where regional business executives and government officials answered questions from airline attendees and vice versa.

“The Airline Summit allows us to showcase the Northeast Florida region to our air service partners,” Barbara Halverstadt, Manager, Development & Marketing, said. “It’s a perfect opportunity for them to see the area’s many amenities first-hand.”

The JAA partnered with multiple businesses and organizations in hosting the airline summit. Those partners include the Jacksonville Economic Development Commission, Florida's First Coast of Golf, North Florida Hotel & Lodging Association, Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce, Visit Jacksonville, Clay County, Slammer & Squire Golf Course at World Golf Village, Amelia Island Convention and Visitor's Bureau, JAXPORT, Sawgrass Marriott, Residence Inn Amelia Island, Go Airport Shuttle, St. Augustine Convention and Visitor's Bureau, The Lodge & Club, HMS Host (JAX Airport), Paradies Shops (JAX Airport), RS&H and the Nassau County Economic Development Board.
 
For more information, contact  Debbie Jones  

The Jacksonville Aviation Authority today announced its unaudited financial results for the 2009-2010 fiscal year, which ended Sept. 30, 2010.

The FY10 total operating revenue was $60.2 million and the total operating expense was $38.6 million. This resulted in an operating income, before depreciation, of $22.4 million for the authority, which manages Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), Cecil Field, Craig Airport and Herlong Airport.

These results boast an 8% increase over an operating income of $20.7 million in the previous year. The authority was also able to cut total expenses from $39.2 million last year to $38.6 million this year.

The total passenger activity at JAX experienced a slight decline of 2% from 5.7 million travelers in the previous year to 5.6 million this year.

“Given the difficult economic environment over the past year, we are extremely pleased with these positive financial results,” said JAA Chief Executive Office and Executive Director Steve Grossman. “The entire JAA team has once again risen to the occasion by increasing revenue, holding down costs and turning in another exemplary performance.”
 
 
For more information, contact  Debbie Jones

Jacksonville Aviation Authority today announced that JetBlue Airways will begin daily nonstop service between Jacksonville and San Juan, Puerto Rico, beginning in May 2011. The airline plans to operate one departure and arrival each day between Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) and Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan.

The JetBlue flights will be the first daily nonstop service between JAX and the island of Puerto Rico.

“This is great news for Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia, especially those at the Jacksonville port, that conduct regular business with Puerto Rico,” said JAA Executive Director and CEO Steve Grossman. “We have been working to put together daily service to Puerto Rico for several years and this announcement is the culmination of a lot of hard work by the JAA staff and the Jacksonville community.”

The port of Jacksonville is one of the major exporters of consumer goods to Puerto Rico. Three of the four container lines that serve Puerto Rico are headquartered in Jacksonville.

"We have been looking forward to this for a long time," said JAXPORT's Chief Commercial Officer Roy Schleicher. "Making access easier for business travelers, as well as tourists, will allow the Jacksonville-Puerto Rican connection to become even stronger than it already is and will open the door to further opportunity on both sides."

In October 2009, Jacksonville Mayor John Peyton signed an agreement with the Mayor of San Juan, Jorge Santini, uniting their municipalities as "Sister Cities." With this new flight connection, the cities can continue their great exchange of commerce, ideas, and business strategies. The new flights will also offer families in Puerto Rico and on the mainland greater access to one another.

“I am extremely pleased that JetBlue will now provide nonstop service from Jacksonville to San Juan,” said Jacksonville Mayor John Peyton. “Commerce with San Juan already provides an economic impact of more than $1 billion annually to Jacksonville. Both Cities will greatly benefit from the increased tourism and business travel this improved route will encourage. I look forward to welcoming visitors from our ‘Sister City’, who will now have a greater opportunity to spend time in our community.”

David McConnell, area vice president of Waste Management Inc. of Florida, welcomed the news of the new service. He currently drives to Orlando twice a month to travel to Puerto Rico where Waste Management operates the island’s only two private landfills.

“This is great news for me,” McConnell said. “I won’t have to drive to Orlando. This also allows us to expand our operations in Puerto Rico. It’s very beneficial as we grow our business down there.”

Jerry Mallot, Executive Vice President of the Jacksonville Regional Chamber of Commerce, noted: “Jacksonville has a strong business relationship with Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico is the largest shipping destination from JAXPORT. There are major logistics companies doing business in both areas. This is a very much needed business service and is complemented by tourism and family interests as well.”

The addition of service between Jacksonville and San Juan underscores JetBlue’s commitment to Puerto Rico. JetBlue sees Puerto Rico as the cornerstone of growth in the Caribbean, and they are happy to be able to offer expanding flights at an affordable price to their customers.

JetBlue also announced that it will add a second daily flight from Jacksonville to Boston in May 2011.
 
 
 
 
 
For more information, contact  Debbie Jones 

The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) has received a grant from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to develop a Spaceport Master Plan for Cecil Field. This award is part of the FAA’s new grant program designed to fund projects that develop and expand commercial space transportation infrastructure.

The FAA awarded $104,805 to the JAA for the Spaceport Master Plan. The project, which is estimated to cost $210,000, will begin in October and is expected to finish in December 2011.

The purpose of the Spaceport Master Plan is to set the direction for business and development related to the space industry at Cecil Field. JAA has contracted to work with RS&H, a local engineering consulting firm, on the project. The master plan project will be conducted in accordance with the guidelines set forth by the FAA with the assistance of Space Florida.

"The Jacksonville Aviation Authority is very honored to be chosen as a recipient of this grant,” said Todd Lindner, Senior Manager of Aviation Planning at JAA. “To the best of my knowledge, this is the first master plan directed at the development of an individual commercial spaceport, and we are hoping that this process will assist the FAA in the development of master plan standards to be used at other FAA licensed spaceports.”

The FAA’s Office of Commercial Space Transportation will administer the new Space Transportation Infrastructure Matching Grants Program. Under the law, the FAA can provide matching funds for specific projects being carried out by public entities involved in commercial space activities.

The United States’ space program has three sectors – civil, military and commercial. The FAA’s Office of Commercial Space Transportation is responsible for licensing, regulating and promoting the commercial-sector space industry. Since the office was created in 1984, the FAA has issued licenses for more than 200 launches, licensed the operation of eight FAA-approved launch sites known as spaceports.

The Cecil Field airport assets include four runways with full length parallel taxiways, 40 major buildings totaling 1.5 million square feet including hangar, warehouse, industrial and general-use space, and 537,000 square yards of aircraft parking apron.
 
 
For more information, contact  Debbie Jones 

The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA), working with its major airlines, is opening a new lane at the security checkpoint designed to accommodate frequent flyers at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX). The new Preferred Passenger lane will help fill a need created when the Preferred Traveler Program was discontinued in June 2009.

The Preferred Passenger lane opens this Friday, Oct. 1, 2010.
Approximately 15 percent of all departing travelers through JAX fall into a “preferred customer” category, as defined by their respective airline.

Passengers traveling in the following categories are allowed to access the Preferred Passenger lane:

Air Tran: Elite, Business Class

American Airlines/Eagle: Priority, Access, AAvantage, Gold, Executive Platinum, Platinum, AAirpass

Continental: EliteAccess, Star Gold, Silver/Star Silver, Platinum/Star Gold

Delta: Sky Priority, Gold/Elite, Silver/Elite, Platinum/ElitePlus

Southwest: A-List, Fly By Security, Business Select

United: Premier, Premier Exec *K (* denote miles), Global Service, Premier Executive

US Airways: Silver, Star Gold, Gold, Platinum

In addition, all passengers with boarding passes that state First Class or Business Class may enter. Contact your airline for details on these programs.

“The separation of frequent flyers from less experienced travelers will benefit both groups and make the screening process more efficient,” said Michael Stewart, Director of External Affairs.

At its monthly meeting yesterday, Jacksonville Aviation Authority elected Ernest Isaac, Jr. as chairman for the 2010-2011 fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1.

“We are looking forward to growing and developing our airport system,” said Isaac, “and we’re confident the coming fiscal year will be an exciting and productive one.” 

The board is comprised of seven members. Three members are appointed by Jacksonville’s mayor, and four are appointed by the governor of Florida.  Each board member serves a 4-year term.

The other 2010-2011 officers include Dr. Chester Aikens as Vice Chairman, Jack Demetree as Treasurer and A.L. Kelly as Secretary. Previously, Isaac served as Treasurer of the board and Aikens served as Secretary.

Isaac is the owner of Ernie Isaac Electrical Co, Inc., and was appointed to the board last year by Mayor John Peyton. Dr. Aikens, also a mayoral appointee, is a practicing dentist. The gubernatorial appointees are Jack Demetree, a Jacksonville businessman, and A.L. Kelly, who is an investigator with the State Attorney’s Office. 

JAA Board members include immediate past Chair Deborah Pass-Durham, president of Potentiae, Ron Weaver, an insurance executive, and Cyrus “Russ” Jollivette, Blue Cross Blue Shield’s Group Vice President, Public Affairs.

JACKSONVILLE, FL - August 23, 2010 – The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) today approved an option to lease a hangar at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) and a lease for a recently built spec hangar at Cecil Field.

JAA board members unanimously approved to give Brazilian airplane manufacturer Embraer an option to lease a 40,000-square-foot hangar at JAX.  Embraer is one of the largest aircraft manufacturers in the world focusing on specific market segments in commercial, defense, and executive aviation.

Whether or not Embraer takes the option at JAX is dependent on the company successfully landing an aircraft contract with the Department of Defense.

“We are glad to extend a leasing option to a well-known and diversified manufacturer like Embraer,” said Deborah Pass-Durham, Chair of the JAA Board. “Brining international clients to Jacksonville is key for the continued growth and development of our airport system.”

In addition, the board approved leasing a recently completed spec hangar at Cecil Field to the United States Navy. The hangar complex, which consists of a 13,983-square-foot existing office building, 22,680-square-feet of newly constructed hangar space and over 44,000 square-feet of ramp space, has an annual rent of $240,190. 

The Navy will use the facility for maintenance and repair of its aircraft.