HUNTSVILLE, Ala — The Huntsville International Airport says their operations are "severely impacted" already by the COVID-19 pandemic.
They say that while specific numbers from airlines aren't in for March yet, there are other indicators that make projections "grim." Parking numbers are down 86% this week, compared to numbers this time in 2019. Reports from the TSA say the volume of people coming through checkpoints at the airport is down 65-70% this week.
The airport says all other areas of airport operations such as car rental companies, the Four Points by Sheraton hotel, concessions, the airport advertising program, Signature Flight Support (HSV fixed-base operator) and the airlines are seeing large volume declines, too.
"At this time Huntsville International Airport is projecting that we will lose 75% of expected revenue in the next 3 months alone," said Jana Kuner, Huntsville International Airport Public Relations Manager.
"That is a $7-$10 million revenue loss in just a matter of 3 months and this loss will continue to grow the longer the pandemic lasts. Because of these projections adjustments have been made to operations and our organization is acting in a mission critical mode.
"This means reducing expenses while also continuing to operate the airport as efficiently as possible. We have three top priorities: 1) the safety of our employees and passengers; 2) continuing to serve this community; and 3) preserving jobs."
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