Governor Josh Stein Promotes Tourism in Western North Carolina
Governor Josh Stein recently visited Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) to launch the “Rediscover the Unforgettable” tourism campaign, a strategic initiative aimed at boosting travel to western North Carolina. During this visit, Stein, along with First Lady, began their journey through the region, highlighting the unique offerings available to travelers and lending support to local businesses.
“Travelers often take their first steps into western North Carolina right here at Asheville Regional Airport,” said Governor Josh Stein. He emphasized the region’s array of attractions, urging people nationwide to visit and experience the unforgettable landscapes and communities.
Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley highlighted the economic significance of AVL, stating, “Asheville Regional Airport is more than just a gateway—it’s a vital economic engine for western North Carolina.” Lilley noted that the “Rediscover the Unforgettable” campaign is instrumental in driving tourism, thus fostering growth for local economies and small businesses.
This summer, Governor Stein partnered with VisitNC to encourage the rediscovery of western North Carolina, particularly in light of its recovery from Hurricane Helene. The campaign was officially launched when Stein announced the reopening of Chimney Rock State Park. This initiative is designed to aid local chambers of commerce and small businesses in attracting tourists back to the area.
The Asheville Regional Airport plays a crucial role in welcoming visitors, having recently expanded with a new concourse. For the second consecutive year in 2024, the airport surpassed 2 million passengers, recording 2,174,125 travelers. According to a report by the North Carolina Division of Aviation, AVL supports 22,745 jobs, contributes over $1 billion in personal income, and has a $3.9 billion impact on the regional economy. This fall, the airport will host six airlines, including American, JetBlue, Delta, and United, offering direct flights from major cities like Boston, New York, and Washington, DC.
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