With the beautiful spring weather we’re having it’s hard to remember the snow and ice of the winter. 

Winter weather can make flying difficult. But I need to recognize the outstanding efforts of the Elmira Corning Regional Airport’s Maintenance and Operations crews this year. This devoted group of individuals worked long days and nights keeping the airport open. And their efforts paid off. US Airways reported that they had NO cancelled flights or diversions caused by field conditions at ELM. Corning Incorporated’s Aviation Department told us their aircraft departed and arrived throughout the day and they did not receive one delay. There were several times when flights destined for other airports landed at ELM because our Airport was open. Of course, we did experience some flight problems due to weather conditions throughout the region. But isn’t it comforting to know that your Airport is making every effort to keep your travel easy?

Watch for parking lot improvements this summer. Much-needed capacity will be added to our parking lot as well as a face-lift that will improve the efficiency and appearance of the lot. This $3 million project is the result of a partnership between Chemung County, the Federal Aviation Administration, and the New York State Department of Transportation. The entire lot will be redesigned to create a less-confusing path through the lot. Nearly 100 spaces will be added as well as a “preferred” area for frequent travelers. We’ll also be adding a “cell phone waiting area” for those who would rather not park and go inside when picking up a friend or family member. Construction should begin in July and is expected to be completed in the fall. Watch this website for construction updates throughout the summer.

Thank you for your support of your regional Airport! ELM ended the first quarter of 2008 with 24,969 passenger enplanements - a 24% increase over the same period in 2007. Every time you use ELM you are sending the airlines a message that we demand service improvements here. We’re working hard to make ELM your first choice for air travel and always value your suggestions of how we can improve.

As we head into summer, I hop you'll come to your Airport Saturday, June 28 for the annual “Set The Night To Music” fireworks display. As always, feel free to contact me directly at  ACrook@co.chemung.ny.us with your suggestions, questions or concerns.

Ann Crook
Elmira Corning Regional Airport Manager