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performing well. Mr. Morello reported that the fourth daily flight, which typically departs around
8:00 p.m., has historically been the weakest but is now showing stronger performance during the
runway closure period. He also said that inbound flights from Charlotte are continuing to operate
at full capacity of 50 passengers because fuel burn inbound reduces landing weight on arrival. He
stated that staff will monitor and try to assess impact in terms of actual revenues versus
budgeted.
Mr. Morello expressed appreciation that City of Newport News Waterworks provided significant
assistance in addressing concrete repairs after burst pipe damage. He stated that Waterworks
directed its concrete contractor to complete expensive reinforced concrete work involving two
400-foot sections at the fire station apron, and that these new sections are stronger than the
originals. He stated that this restores safe operating conditions for maneuvering heavy ARFF
rescue units weighing approximately 90,000 pounds.
Mr. Morello stated that the airport is currently interviewing strong university candidates for two
summer internship positions lasting approximately 12 weeks. He stated that the positions have
been advertised through aviation program partners, including universities and community
colleges. He stated that the internships are paid positions partially funded by Virginia Space
Grant Consortium grants of $5,000 for each position. He stated that the airport is grateful for this
assistance and considers the partnership an important resource for strengthening its internship
program.
Mr. Morello reported that the monthly Air Service Report Summary is included in the
Commissioners’ agenda packets as usual. Mr. Morello explained that overall operations in April,
including general aviation, charter activity, and non-commercial air service, increased by
approximately 12% compared to the previous year. He stated that this growth continues a trend
observed throughout the fiscal year.
Old Business: Chair Smith Chair Smith reported that the Taxiway Delta Phase One
reconstruction grant agreement (Exhibit B) is included in the Board packet for Commission
review and consideration. She stated that the resolution before the Commission authorizes
acceptance and approval of the final portion of federal grant funding for the Phase One Taxiway
Delta rehabilitation program, which is currently underway and nearing completion. She stated
that the project was structured in three phases due to the use of different FAA funding sources,
with the overall program totaling just over $10 million. She said that the Virginia Aviation Board
has provided support covering the local matching share of approximately $502,000, thereby
eliminating the need for a local 5 percent match, and that the FAA funding associated with this
action totals $233,257 as the final allocation for Phase One of the rehabilitation program. She
asked that the Commission approve the resolution authorizing acceptance of Airport
Infrastructure Grant funds for Taxiway Delta reconstruction (Grant No. 3-51-0064-2026) and
affirming compliance with all FAA grant assurances and applicable federal requirements. Dr.
Price made a motion to approve the grant agreement and Mr. Lawson seconded the motion. The
motion was approved by roll call vote, 4-0.
New Business: Mr. Morello reported that a hosting agreement and a resolution (Exhibit C) are
before the Commission for consideration regarding a proposed community event at the airport in
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