NEWS RELEASE

This week, the Vero Beach Municipal Airport (VRB) received official approval from the City Council to change its name to “Vero Beach Regional Airport.” Airport staff had been asked to consider the name change by the Vero Beach Airport Commission at their public meeting held on May 28, 2015, at City Hall. Following the official approval, the airport will pursue review by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

“The name change is timely in that the Airport Commission has been working on a new airport master plan and sustainable economic business plan to improve the airport’s viability as a potential commercial carrier airport. So, we’d be pleased to have the formal designation as a regional airport from the FAA,” said Mayor Richard Winger, City of Vero Beach. “The name change is a key component in the long-term strategy to enhance economic and business development opportunities at the airport.”

VRB will benefit from regional status in a number of ways – most notably in the area of commercial passenger service. Even without an air carrier, the airport is already very busy serving the Treasure Coast regional market. Currently, the airport averages over 300 flights per day, mostly from corporate jets, flight training, private air charter, and other general aviation activity. Having regional status recognizes the true service market of the airport and makes it more recognized by airlines that may be considering new markets.

The airport has about 1,700 acres of land, including hundreds of acres for aviation or non-aviation development in a central location in Indian River County. In cooperation with the Indian River Chamber of Commerce, one of the airport’s goals is to attract businesses by designating the airport as a Foreign Trade Zone, which would allow companies the ability to bring in international goods and not pay a tariff on them until they’re sold.

“We’re recognizing the airport as the regional asset that it is. With over $468 million in economic impact each year supporting over 3,500 jobs from at least 3 counties, the Vero Beach Regional Airport is a very significant economic engine for the entire area. New businesses and the potential for commercial air service will attract additional jobs and generate payrolls that will have a positive impact on the regional economy,” said Eric Menger, airport director.

The next step for the airport will be to receive FAA review and coordination of the name change. Already one of the most successful airports in Florida, the Vero Beach Regional Airport has its sights on infrastructure and aesthetic improvement that will keep its future secure. Runway and taxiway improvements are part of its 5 year capital plan, using FAA and FDOT grant funds to assist in the cost. In addition, the airport is promoting private business development on areas of vacant property with innovative and flexible long term leasing terms.

The Vero Beach Regional Airport is owned and operated by the City of Vero Beach. For more information about the airport, visit http://www.verobeachairport.org, or “like” Vero Beach Airport on Facebook. Contact Information: Airport Director’s Office, 772-978-4930Vero