New airport terminal opens at Chattanooga's Lovell Field

Thursday, August 11, 2011

photo The new general aviation terminal at the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport is under construction in this July 9, 2011 file photo.
photo Former Chattanooga Mayor Ron Littlefield

Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport officials today opened a $5 million general aviation terminal and hangar, calling it a new front door to the city.

"It's the first impression people get of Chattanooga," said Mayor Ron Littlefield.

He said the facility on the west side of the airport's main runway is another economic development tool as officials try to woo more business to the city.

Bob Wilson, president of Memphis-based Wilson Air Center, which will run the airport-owned facility, said it will work to make a positive and professional impression.

"This does make the difference," said Wilson about the 9,000-square-foot terminal. Wilson's operation will compete with existing fixed base operator Tac Air.

Chattanooga businessman Jim Berry, who heads Chattanooga-based Republic Parking Systems, is the hangar's first tenant.

See Friday's Times Free Press for full story.

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