Orlando Melbourne International Airport (MLB) has increased its economic impact on the local space coast economy by 74% in the past five years, according to a recent study by the Florida Department of Transportation.
The 2019 Florida Statewide Aviation Economic Study showed MLB’s annual economic impact at $2.77 billion, up from $1.6 billion in 2014. MLB outpaced most airports in the state, placing it just above Orlando Sanford International (SFB) and St. Pete-Clearwater (PIE) airports, both at approximately $2.6 billion in a statewide ranking.
The increase has been attributed to MLB’s ongoing commitment to attracting jobs, boosting tourism and reinvesting in capital assets. Recent projects providing the impressive ROI (return on investments) include rehabilitation of the airport’s three runways, a new air traffic control tower, upgraded taxiways and customs facility. A multi-phase terminal transformation is also underway, already replacing air conditioning chillers, restroom facilities, jet bridges and other critical passenger pleasers. New retail offerings and increased food and beverage operations are on the drawing board.
Airport executive director Greg Donovan said: “We’re the closest airport to one of the top cruise ports in the world. NASA’s launch program, our proximity to Orlando and miles of sparkling beaches are just a few of the attributes that this region boasts. Add to that our higher than usual business travel component, and we are proving to be very attractive to the airlines.
“We have worked diligently and purposefully as an airport to provide the infrastructure necessary to foster business and enable growth. Tourism statewide is on the rise and our planned airside hotel will help bring even more visitors to Melbourne, Florida.”