Efforts to bring Moore County commercial air service to the Sandhills reached another milestone this week after the Moore County Tourism Development Authority approved a $300,000 contribution toward a funding package designed to attract a commercial passenger airline.
The decision adds another piece to a community-wide effort involving local governments, businesses and economic development leaders who hope scheduled passenger flights will eventually become available at the Moore County Airport.
While commercial flights are not guaranteed, local officials say the latest funding commitment strengthens the county’s application for additional federal assistance and demonstrates broad community support for the project.
Funding Brings the Project Closer
The Tourism Development Authority’s contribution will help complete the local funding needed to support an application for a federal Small Community Air Service Development grant. If awarded, the grant would provide the remaining funding needed to create a minimum revenue guarantee designed to encourage a major airline to begin service.
Officials say approximately $1.7 million has already been pledged by dozens of local businesses, organizations and community partners. The federal grant would provide roughly another $1 million to complete the funding package.
The Moore County Airport Authority is overseeing the grant application, and airport officials expect to learn whether the county has been selected within the next couple of months.
What Commercial Air Service Could Mean
Commercial passenger flights have been a long-term goal for many community leaders across Moore County. Easier access to air travel could benefit local residents, attract new businesses, support tourism and provide another transportation option for visitors traveling to Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen and communities throughout the Sandhills.
Tourism remains one of Moore County’s largest economic drivers, and local leaders believe scheduled airline service could make the region even more attractive for golf visitors, business travelers and conventions.
If the project moves forward, airlines would begin marketing service several months before the first scheduled flights, allowing travelers time to begin purchasing tickets before operations officially begin.
What Happens Next?
The next major milestone will be the federal grant decision. If the grant is approved, airport officials would continue discussions with potential airline partners while finalizing agreements needed to launch passenger service.
Even if funding is secured, commercial flights would still require additional planning before the first aircraft arrives in Moore County. Officials say airline schedules, marketing campaigns and ticket sales typically begin months before service starts.
Residents interested in following the project can learn more through the Moore County Airport Authority and the Moore County Government.
For now, this week’s vote represents another important step toward making Moore County commercial air service a reality for residents across Southern Pines, Pinehurst, Aberdeen and the greater Sandhills region.
Stay with Star 102.5 and Pulse of the Pines for continuing coverage of this story and more local news from across Moore County and the Sandhills.
