Airport Boosts Economy, Wins Award

By Martha Dalton

Atlanta, GA – A new study shows that despite a tough economic climate, Hartsfield Jackson International Airport has seen a jump in revenue. Airport officials announced the details of the study Tuesday. WABE's Martha Dalton reports.

Airport Interim General Manager Robert Kennedy says in 2009, Hartsfield-Jackson generated 32.6 billion dollars in revenue for the metro area - up 40 percent from 2005:

"We're crediting the increase and the economic impact to increased passenger numbers from 2005, visitor spending, and length of stay for visitors."

Kennedy says the uptick also boosted job growth by 11 percent.
In addition to the economic gains, the airport also won the Global Airport Efficiency Excellence Award for productivity, efficiency, and low costs. But he says they're not resting on their laurels.

"We're taking steps to maintain our position as the world's most efficient airport, such as the construction of our new international terminal."

Kennedy says the new terminal will be finished in two years. Officials also announced the addition of cargo carriers starting in September.