The Tyler Pounds Regional Airport was named 2007 Airport of the Year for the State of Texas by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) at the annual regional partnership conference March 12, 2008. The award recognizes outstanding contributions made by airports toward aviation in the state.
“The airport has contributed significantly to assuring the future growth, safety and efficiency of the national air transportation system,” said Teri A. Bruner, FAA Southwest Region administrator.
“This award is testimony to the return on investment that Tylerites have reaped as a result of their commitment to the half-cent sales tax program,” said Tyler Mayor Joey Seeber. “The new terminal for the Airport was funded, in part, by the half-cent sales tax. This award reflects the quality of the facility as well as the tremendous leadership and strategic planning demonstrated at the Airport.”
The new terminal was completed in 2002 at a cost of $17.6 million – 40% of which was funded by the FAA. The new terminal improved passenger flow, expanded customer parking, enhanced traffic movement for passenger pick-up and drop off, streamlined airline operations areas, modernized rental car operations, utilized proactive planning to address future aviation needs for the next 20 years, and added security measures for customer safety. In 2007, the Airport added jet bridges to further strengthen security and passenger safety.
Currently Tyler Pounds serves 150,000 travelers per year and has 11 flights per day. Service is provided by American Eagle Airlines and Continental with service to Houston and Dallas with worldwide connectivity.
“The Airport is a tremendous asset to the community,” said Davis Dixon, Airport director. “Travelers can get to their destination quicker and forgo the commute to Dallas. The Airport also is an important economic development tool to lure new businesses and industries to Tyler.”