Chattanooga Airport parking too limited
The June 23 Business section’s feature article dealt with the out-migration of local residents from the Chattanooga Airport.
In the past I attempted to use our local airport, despite the higher cost and need for connecting flights. Arriving at the airport between 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. however, there often is very little available parking. One day, I arrived 50 minutes prior to my scheduled departure with checked bags and preprinted boarding pass in hand. No long-term parking spaces were available.
Despite the higher cost, I then drove to both the intermediate and short-term lots. No spaces there, either. With only 30 minutes until flight departure, with sweat pouring from my brow, I doubled back to the long-term lot, found a single open space, and ran to my plane.
Upon my return, I met with the new airport manager and was assured a parking garage was on the drawing board. Since then, I always have taken a taxi from my home to get there. However, considering the taxi fare, it makes more sense to take the airport shuttle to Atlanta or Nashville, save money on the airfare and avoid the change in planes that would be necessary from Chattanooga.
MICHAEL J. ZEMA