T.F. Green Airport reached a milestone in 1999, exceeding 5 million passengers for the first time in its 68-year history. That’s more than double the 2.4 million passengers that used the airport in 1996, the year the new terminal opened. ”Passenger traffic in 1999 has exceeded our expectations since no one predicted doubling our traffic in three years,” said Herb Cummings, chairman of the Rhode Island Airport Corporation. “What’s equally gratifying is that nearly all of the airlines, which service Green Airport, have experienced significant increase in passengers, providing further assurance that the range of choice and hassle-free experience is what makes Green so successful.”
Green first reached the one million-passenger mark in 1987, when it recorded 1.3 million passengers. In 1996, the airport recorded 2.4 million, but the following year saw passenger travel hit 4.1 million.
Cummings, who noted the airlines continue to add destinations and upgrade equipment, said future expansion depends on continued expansion of destinations, including international routes, continuation of competitive fares, good customer service and a good economy.
Green’s growth has also coincided with the introduction of more competitive pricing, with the arrival primarily of Southwest Airlines, but also Delta Express.
