New Bay County Airport Dubbed Northwest Florida-Panama City International Airport

The Panama City – Bay County International Airport and Industrial District (Airport Authority) voted Wednesday to name the new international airport now under construction at West Bay the Northwest Florida – Panama City International Airport. The new airport is scheduled to open in May 2010.

“After listening to extensive feedback and gathering suggestions from the community, we decided to go with a name that reflects the geographic area the new airport will serve,” said Airport Authority Chairman Joe Tannehill. “This truly is Northwest Florida’s international airport and will be this region’s gateway to the world – and the world’s gateway to our region.”

The Airport Authority solicited input from community organizations, including the region’s Tourism Development Councils (TDCs), Economic Development Alliances (EDAs), Chambers of Commerce and interested citizens.

“We received hundreds of suggestions from across the region,” said Airport Executive Director Randy Curtis. “The response was outstanding and the suggestions were both creative and helpful.” Curtis added the new name met several criteria the board and the community had established, including a name that would have universal appeal, reflect the region served and support economic development and tourism.

“With each milestone we pass, we move closer to the day the new airport will deliver on the goals this community established 10 years ago: better and more competitive air service and the establishment of an economic development engine for the region,” said Airport authority Vice Chairman Bill Cramer. “We look forward to welcoming visitors to the region at the new Northwest Florida – Panama City International Airport in May 2010.”

FMI: www.newpcairport.com