Expansion of international flights to begin at Oklahoma City Airport

Friday, February 23, 2024

The Will Rogers World Airport is gearing up to introduce new travel destinations, a development made possible by the proactive measures taken by airport authorities. The establishment of a new facility has positioned Oklahoma City as a potential hub for international travel, a vision that has been gradually unfolding since 2021. This initiative was sparked by the construction of a customs space some years prior, with the anticipation that Oklahoma City would eventually serve as a gateway for international flights.

Documents obtained by News 9 reveal meticulous planning for a federal inspection center at the airport, a first-of-its-kind service for the city, as highlighted by Jeff Mulder, the director of airports for Oklahoma City. He emphasized that such advancements do not materialize overnight, indicating the strategic foresight involved in this expansion. The space, conceived during the 2021 expansion, was intended to evolve into a federal inspection services facility (FIS), underscoring the city’s ambitions to offer these services.

Mulder further shared that upon the completion of the interior, the facility would enable international travelers to check into the U.S. directly from Oklahoma City, with discussions already underway to establish connections with Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America as primary targets. This decision was influenced by the observation of over 150,000 passengers annually traveling to these regions, suggesting a robust market.

The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s CEO, David Castillo, noted the growing Hispanic population in Oklahoma City and how these international flights could simplify travel for those wishing to visit family in Mexico, expressing excitement over this development. Similarly, Greater Oklahoma City Chamber CEO Christy Gillenwater highlighted the potential economic benefits, pointing out that direct flights are vital for economic expansion, indicating a strong trajectory of growth for the city.

This initiative is seen as a realization of a past vision that aimed at enhancing the community’s stature by facilitating international arrivals. Mulder is optimistic about the customs facility’s completion within the year and anticipates the commencement of international flights by 2025.

This venture is expected to significantly impact airlines and tourism by broadening the scope of travel destinations available from Oklahoma City, facilitating easier access for international visitors, and fostering economic growth through increased tourism and business opportunities. From the outset to the conclusion, the narrative underscores the potential transformative effects on airlines and tourism, painting a picture of a future where Oklahoma City emerges as a key player in the international travel scene.

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