North Carolina:
The State of Aviation

“North Carolina’s aviation system continues driving
the economy by connecting people, companies and
communities to markets and destinations worldwide.”

Bobby Walston, Director
N.C. Department of Transportation Division of Aviation

North Carolina State of Aviation 2023

For 120 years, North Carolina has led the way in aviation. In 2021, the first-in-flight state led the way out of the pandemic, carrying more cargo than ever before, opening new markets to passenger service, enhancing airport
facilities, hosting the world’s fifth-busiest airport and welcoming new airlines and aerospace companies that now call North Carolina home.
These are among findings from the NCDOT Division of Aviation’s biennial economic impact study of the state’s public airport system and the assets North Carolina offers aviation-supported companies.
Our analysis found North Carolina’s 72 public airports annually contribute more than $72 billion in economic impact – 11% of the state’s gross domestic product, its total output of goods and services.

The airports also support 330,000 jobs that generate $23 billion in personal income and $3.7 billion in state and local tax revenues.
North Carolina’s aviation system continues driving the economy by connecting people, companies and communities to markets and destinations worldwide.