Murray On Travel

Construction on the new Branson Missouri airport began in July 2007, and to date, 11 million cubic yards of dirt have been moved in order to construct the terminal and runway. The Branson Airport's 7,140-foot runway, created by cutting the top off a mountain, is designed for midsized commercial type aircraft such as the Boeing 737 and 757, but can handle planes as large as the 767. This will enable the airport to receive non-stop air service from anywhere in the continental United States. The 4 gates will share a welcoming, spacious holding area.  Official Site.

The recent press release also states that the facility will offer all the amenities of a full-service airport, with one critical difference. The Branson Airport will be the first airport in the country to put customer service first, by providing "concierge-level" service to all departing and arriving travelers.

Although the services listed are not that far off to what a traditional airport offers, screening, baggage claim, curbside service, concessions, shops and restaurants; the big difference is the that the employees work for the airport, not the airlines. Some unique differences notes are the welcome center, concierge service and the ability to check in to one counter for all airline services. Rental cars will also be available at the airport.

Total project cost is $155 million (includes private equity and bonds) and not one tax dollar was used in the development. The airport will expand the scope of the project to meet additional demand in the future.  On the positive economic note, the community recognized $209 million in new revenues to the Branson Lakes regional economy, $77.5 million in payroll earnings and 3,299 jobs supported.

The Branson Airport is touting a better traveling experience where the employees are motivated to make the travelers experience better. As a profit-driven operation, Branson Airport has more incentive to treat its customers better.  According the Branson Airport web site, "The arrival and departure experience will be infused with warmth, hospitality and concierge-like customer service. For example, associates will be on site to help arriving passengers customize their Branson experience. Travelers returning rental cars never even touch their bags. They step out of their cars, a porter picks up their luggage, hands them their boarding pass and they walk directly into the terminal".

Designed to handle and process 700,000 deplaning passengers every year, the Branson Airport will significantly increase the number of new visitors from around the United States who will now be able to enjoy the wonderful Branson experience!