McAllen International Airport Announces $7.4 Million Investment for Expansion

Given the growth at McAllen International Airport in Texas, Aviation Director Jeremy Santoscoy announced that a $7.4 million investment will be made to develop new infrastructure. This expansion will increase service spaces for passengers and improve overall user experience. The funds are sourced from the 2024 Consolidated Appropriations Act as part of an effort to stimulate the region's economic development and attract new air service opportunities. Santoscoy emphasized, "The airport's commitment to infrastructure improvement remains steadfast. We will use these grant funds to enhance facilities and drive growth."

Economic Development

Keith Patridge, president and CEO of the McAllen Economic Development Corporation (McAllen EDC), Josh Vazquez, workforce development director at McAllen EDC, and Mark Garcia, McAllen EDC's executive vice president, highlighted the importance of investing in new air infrastructure to boost economic development. From McAllen International Airport, nine direct destinations are available, including Dallas, Houston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Austin, Tampa, Orlando, Mexico City, and Cancún. These destinations are served by six airlines: American Airlines, United, Allegiant, Delta, Aeroméxico, and Volaris.

Impact in South Texas

The official announcement event featured McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos, City Manager Roy Rodriguez, and Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz, among other business leaders. Villalobos stressed that the airport has become a major hub for both tourism and business travel in South Texas. He recognized the effort required to allocate these funds through the 2024 Consolidated Appropriations Act and emphasized the importance of new infrastructure development to remain competitive. Rodriguez discussed the airport's growth, including the addition of four new routes and the entry of three airlines. He noted, "The funding received by the airport has a highly positive impact on our plans for the future of the entire region."