STEWART AIRPORT – The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is launching a major campaign to grow air service at New York Stewart International Airport at Newburgh and capitalize on the Hudson Valley’s tourism and economic development opportunities.
Orange County Executive Steven Neuhaus believes post-COVID, the Hudson Valley will be in the catbird seat and Stewart will play a major role.
“This country is going to have a complete change and it is going to have a lasting impact from COVID and that might mean people traveling to non-typical destinations as they had in the past,” he said. “This is a great opportunity for Orange County and Stewart International Airport to kick the tires on new markets around the country.”
Since COVID-19 decimated the airline industry, only one airline continued to fly from Stewart, and now Allegiant, which flies seasonally to Myrtle Beach and year-round to Florida destinations, will be adding service this summer to Savannah, GA and Destin, FL.
American Airlines has returned to Stewart operating one regional jet flight daily to Philadelphia.
Jet Blue, which operated flights to Florida, cancelled them because of the pandemic, and has not said when it would return to Stewart.
But, the Port Authority is offering an incentive program for existing airlines to expand service and new carriers to enter the market.
The airport’s federal inspection station, to handle in-bound international travelers, is completed and while Stewart currently has no foreign flights, it is hoped the new facility will open the door for those to enter the market.
The Port Authority is also planning to partner with regional tourism and trade organizations to promote the airport as a driver of economic activity.
It has unveiled a new logo to promote the fact that Stewart is in the heart of New York’s apple country.
Hudson Valley Tourism President Amanda Dana said Stewart can serve as a gateway to bring visitors to the region for the new Legoland theme park and the many other opportunities to enjoy in the 10-county region.
