CAE celebrates SC Aviation Week and receives proclamation from Governor McMaster, new terminal projects announced

April 27, 2023

As part of a statewide celebration of South Carolina Aviation Week this week (April 23 – April 29, 2023), hosted by the South Carolina Aviation Association, the Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) welcomed Governor Henry McMaster and community leaders to the airport for a press conference announcing and showcasing some of CAE’s recently completed projects. During Governor McMaster’s remarks, he presented Mike Gula, CAE’s Executive Director, with a proclamation naming this week SC Aviation Week. The event was also an opportunity for the airport – one of the region’s largest economic engines – to highlight new initiatives starting soon that will continue to ensure CAE is Growing for Good.

Photo credit: Forrest Clonts

“Our state’s airports play a critical role in supporting South Carolina’s booming economy,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “From tourism to trade, aviation is indispensable to our state, and that is why it is my honor to declare this week as South Carolina Aviation Week.”

During the ribbon cutting ceremony, the leadership team at CAE unveiled the recently completed Checked Baggage Inspection System, all new airline ticket counters and digital kiosk displays used for an easy and efficient universal check in process. In addition, the team also discussed the recent installation of a Common Use system – a system in which all airlines can operate off the same platform, making it appealing to possible new airline entrants into the market.

“The Columbia Metropolitan Airport is on an upward trajectory and with events like today, the momentum is not only seen but felt across the aviation industry,” said Executive Director, Mike Gula “We are incorporating state-of-the-air equipment throughout the terminal and proactively looking for ways to further enhance our valued passengers traveling experience.”

Photo credit: Forrest Clonts

Another notable project coming soon to CAE is an expanded TSA checkpoint. The project, set to break ground later this year, will widen the current checkpoint – making it more functional and efficient. This remodeled checkpoint will be able to process and screen more passengers at any given time.

Air service operations were also celebrated during the event, as CAE will have a busy summer of new and returning service on both American Airlines and Delta Air Lines.

Photo credit: Forrest Clonts

“American Airlines will be restarting both their nonstop routes to Miami and New York City this summer,” said Director of Marketing and Air Service Development, Kim J. Crafton. “Additionally, Delta Air Lines will be adding a second nonstop flight to New York City in mid-August. The added service offers our passengers travel options, as well as connections to international destinations; making flying locally a convenient and easy option.”

For more information on of CAE’s new and upcoming projects, and to see a complete list of nonstop destinations, please visit www.flycae.com.

 

About the Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE)

Now providing 26+ daily flights with nonstop service to 10 major airports in nine cities including Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, *Miami (*Seasonal service returning on June 3, 2022 on American Airlines on Saturdays only), New York City (LGA), Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. (Dulles and Reagan National), Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE), a two-time Global Biorisk Advisory Council® (GBAC) STAR™ accredited facility, continues to be a major economic driver for the Midlands region. Welcoming over 1 million passengers in 2022, CAE is served by American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines and serves as a regional cargo hub for UPS. CAE is also served by FedEx. Want to save money the next time your park at the airport? Pre-book your parking, park and save on the spot by visiting https://flycae.com/airport/parking/. For additional more information about CAE in general, please visit www.flycae.com.