AVIATION PLANNING

The region’s aviation facilities serve a vital role in the overall transportation system. They aid in corporate recruitment and economic development, provide the ability to engage in business activities related to aviation and movement of cargo, provide military support, provide recreational and tourism opportunities, and enable emergency response for medical, fire, or police teams.

There are three publicly-owned General Aviation Airports in the GCLMPO planning area, one in each county. These include: Gastonia Municipal Airport; Shelby-Cleveland County Regional Airport; and Lincolnton-Lincoln County Regional Airport. Though none of these airports offer scheduled, passenger air service, Charlotte Douglas International Airport serves this purpose in adjacent Mecklenburg County. In addition, Concord Regional Airport in nearby Cabarrus County offers scheduled, passenger air service.

The GCLMPO will continue to maximize air transportation opportunities by:

  • Supporting the GCLMPO’s airports’ ongoing long-range plans.
  • Supporting airport expansions in Gaston, Cleveland, and Lincoln counties.
  • Supporting economic development in the GCLMPO area.
  • Supporting expansion opportunities for the Charlotte Douglas International Airport that will increase the attractiveness of the airport as a major passenger and intermodal facility.