Rocky Mount-Wilson Regional Airport explores growth opportunities after flights quadruple in two years

In a few years, you might be able to get a commercial flight out of the Rocky Mount-Wilson Regional Airport.

RWI is prepping for growth after data revealed operations have quadrupled since 2021. The airport went from 10,172 flights in 2021 to 45,794 in 2023.
Interim Airport Director Jarrett Moss said the airport is ready to grow.

"It is important that we keep our facilities up to date,” Moss said. “It is very attractive for local businesses.”

RWI is located at 7265 Air Terminal Drive in Elm City. It sits between Nash, Edgecombe and Wilson counties. While the airport does not offer commercial flights, it is known to serve companies like Cummins and Pfizer.

The Rocky Mount-Wilson Regional Airport Authority said the industry is one of the biggest motivators for the projects.

"Our current footprint is about 500 acres, and we are going to double the size of that,” Airport Authority Chairman Garry Hodges said.

Early development plans show the addition of more hangers, an industrial park for businesses, and a second runway to increase traffic.

"We have a lot of people stopping in for fuel," Hodges said. "They can come in and land, fuel up their aircraft, and go on their way. [It’s] quicker than if they were going into Raleigh-Durham,” Hodges said.

Moss said the airport has already added new fuel tanks and hangers to prepare for the development.

President and CEO of Rocky Mount Chamber of Commerce David Farris said the need has been present for a while.

"There is a lot of need for it, and as we continue to grow, and as we develop more industrial hubs around here, that need is going to be there. We are trying to get ahead of it,” Farris said.

Moss said he hopes that one day any one can fly out of RWI.

"That very first impression of the area is so vital. It’s so important," Moss said.

The airport is working with consultants to finalize its development plans. When the plans are complete, it will look for funding opportunities to put the projects in motion.