Ribbon Cut on New Passenger Terminal at North Central West Virginia Airport
BRIDGEPORT, W.Va. — Years of planning, construction and infrastructure work officially came together Monday as the ribbon was cut on the new passenger terminal at North Central West Virginia Airport.
The new two-story terminal includes approximately 53,000 square feet of space, four commercial gates, expanded security screening areas, new passenger amenities and significantly more room than the airport’s longtime terminal.
Commercial passenger operations are scheduled to move into the new facility beginning Tuesday, Aug. 18.
The opening represents one of the most significant upgrades in the history of the Harrison County airport and gives North Central West Virginia a modern passenger facility designed to accommodate future growth.
Getting to Monday’s ribbon cutting required far more than construction of the terminal itself.
Years of work went into preparing the surrounding property, including major earth-moving operations, new roads, parking, taxiway and apron improvements and other infrastructure needed to develop the new side of the airport.
Altogether, the terminal and related infrastructure represent roughly $70 million in total investment, one of the largest transportation and economic development projects completed in North Central West Virginia in recent years.
The project also created a new entrance to the airport from West Virginia Route 279, changing how many travelers will access commercial flights at CKB.
Gov. Patrick Morrisey joined airport officials and community leaders Monday for the ribbon cutting.
“This terminal is more than just a gateway for travelers, it is a launchpad for economic opportunity across North Central West Virginia,” Morrisey said.
The new terminal arrives as the airport continues to play an increasingly important role in the region’s economy.
The property surrounding CKB has developed into a growing aerospace and aviation employment center, with major companies and additional investments continuing to locate near the airport. The new passenger terminal adds another major piece to that larger development.
For travelers, the difference will be immediately visible.
The new terminal offers considerably more space than the existing facility, along with updated passenger areas, additional gates and infrastructure that gives airport leaders greater flexibility as they pursue future air service and continued growth.
The former passenger terminal is expected to remain part of airport operations, with portions of the facility available for private aviation and other uses.
Monday’s ribbon cutting marks the completion of a project that has been discussed and developed for years.
Beginning Tuesday, passengers flying through North Central West Virginia Airport will finally begin using it.
