Cabarrus Today

Concord-Padgett Regional Airport Fueling Record Economic Growth and Opportunity in Concord and Cabarrus County

The City of Concord, long known for its high-performance living and world-class motorsports, has quickly become one of the region’s most desirable places to live and work. Concord is now the 10th largest and 6th fastest growing city in North Carolina, and continues to attract record economic development from a diverse mix of industries, including household names like Red Bull, Eli Lilly, Kroger, and NASCAR.

In a recent statement, Dirk Vanderleest, Aviation Director, highlighted the significance of Concord-Padgett Regional Airport, stating, "The Concord-Padgett Regional Airport is an important economic engine for the City of Concord, Cabarrus County, and the region." Vanderleest emphasized the city's strategic investments in planning, infrastructure, and development projects at the airport, anticipating continued growth in income, tax revenue, and economic output.

According to The State of Aviation report by the N.C. Department of Transportation Division of Aviation, Concord-Padgett Regional Airport contributes over $900 million to the local economy, generating $48 million in tax revenue and supporting 4,430 local jobs. Page Castrodale, Executive Director of Cabarrus Economic Development Corporation, acknowledged the airport's role in meeting business needs, stating, "Businesses value access to air travel and Concord-Padgett Regional Airport plays an important role in meeting business needs through its general aviation and low-cost commercial services."

With more than 1.4 million individuals residing within a 30-minute radius of the airport, Concord-Padgett Regional Airport serves as a crucial transportation hub. The airport, home to NASCAR's air force and several flight schools, has 226 based aircraft and offers commercial flights through Allegiant Airlines, expanding its business aviation offerings to attract new economic development to the region.

Recent economic development projects in collaboration with Cabarrus EDC, the City of Concord, and Cabarrus County have resulted in significant investments. Companies like Red Bull, Ball, Rauch, and Eli Lilly are injecting over $1.4 billion and $1 billion, respectively, into new manufacturing and pharmaceutical facilities, promising to create over 1,200 new jobs.

Furthermore, Concord-Padgett Regional Airport's partnership with Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace has positioned the city as a destination for innovation and advanced technology. The introduction and testing of remote tower technology make Concord-Padgett the first airport in North Carolina to implement such advancements, aiming to revolutionize air traffic management nationwide.

With ongoing plans for airport expansions and infrastructure enhancements, Concord-Padgett Regional Airport is poised for continued growth and advancement, solidifying its position as a key driver of economic prosperity in the region.