Airport expansions can generate controversy, and therefore any proposal should undergo a cost-benefit analysis. In the case of the Portland International Jetport's expansion plans, the benefit side of the ledger carries a lot of weight.
The Jetport will undertake the largest expansion in its history starting in the spring of 2008. The two-year, $60 million project will add nearly 500 parking spaces, double the size of the security screening area and create an additional five gates for aircraft. The project involves replacing an existing two-story parking garage with a five-story one, building a sky bridge between the garage and the main terminal, and adding to the terminal itself.
Current trends in the airline industry support the expansion. Though it has taken three decades, the effects of airderegulation are remaking the airline business. Low-fare carriers like JetBlue and AirTran Airways have begun to serve smaller markets, including Portland, and that's made those airports more competitive with the likes of Boson's Logan International Airport.
The Internet is a big part of this revolution, giving upstart airlines access to customers and allowing those customers to shop for the best fares, putting price pressure on all carriers. That has not been good news for legacy carriers like Delta and Northwest, but it's really good news for Portland and its airport.
JetBlue and AirTran are now serving the city, and there's no reason to believe that Portland will lose favor with these or other discount airlines anytime in the future. Traffic is strong, say jetport managers, and it will likely get stronger as people find they can fly out of Portland just as cheaply as they can out of Boston or Manchester, N.H.
For a region that sells its quality of life to potential employers, having a modern airport served by competitive carriers is essential. Portland wants to attract those businesses that can be anywhere, and thus will choose the quality of life offered here. But businesses that can be anywhere require convenient and affordable air travel options.
Jetport neighbors have had some complaints in the past, but by and large Portland has avoided the kind of controversy that has plagued other airports around the country. Still, there's no doubt that a busier airport means more flights, and therefore more noise for those whose homes and businesses are close by.
Airport managers should continue to work with those neighbors to minimize the impact of the Jetport, but expansion is and should be the plan going forward.
