The Manassas City Council moved one step closer to bringing commercial passenger service to Manassas Regional Airport, securing several foundational approvals that will enable the airport to expand operations and welcome regional carriers in the coming years.
The actions taken during the December 8 council meeting mark a significant milestone in a multi-year effort to transform the city-owned airport from a general aviation hub into a limited-commercial-service facility.
It remains unclear what airlines could serve Virginia’s largest municipal airport.
FAA requirements move forward
City Manager Steve Burke briefed the council on the airport’s progress toward meeting Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements for commercial operations. While the transcript segment you provided doesn’t include every procedural detail, the discussion centered on two key areas:
- Infrastructure + Safety Requirements
The airport has been working to secure approvals related to:- Safety area upgrades
- Terminal and passenger-handling planning
- Future parking and roadway adjustments
- Compliance with federal standards for commercial service airports
- Policy + Regulatory Updates
Council considered updates that prepare the city for the operational, insurance, and noise-mitigation responsibilities that come with commercial flights.
Council signals support
Council members expressed broad enthusiasm for the future of the airport and the economic potential of commercial air service.
Vice Mayor Mark D. Wolfe noted that adding commercial flights could significantly advance the city’s long-term economic development goals, making Manassas more competitive in Northern Virginia’s regional market.
Councilmember Sonia Vásquez Luna emphasized the community benefits, pointing out that expanded service could help local residents and businesses access more affordable regional travel options without leaving the city.
Councilmember Ralph J. Smith underscored the airport’s reputation for sound management and strong partnerships, adding confidence that the airport is positioned to scale operations responsibly.
Resident interest and expected impacts
While Monday’s public hearing segment did not include citizen testimony specific to the airport, prior community conversations have highlighted several recurring themes:
- Increased economic activity and job creation
- Potential for noise and traffic impacts
- Strong interest from local businesses seeking improved connectivity
- Desire for transparent planning as the airport upgrades its facilities
Airport staff emphasized that commercial service is expected to begin modestly, with small regional jets or turboprop aircraft and limited daily flights.
A long-range vision is becoming a reality
Manassas Regional Airport is already the busiest general aviation airport in Virginia. The jump to commercial operations has been discussed for more than a decade, but 2025 saw meaningful momentum:
- Terminal expansion concepts are under review
- Airlines have expressed exploratory interest
- Regional economic studies show strong demand for short-haul travel
“This is a transformative opportunity,” said Mayor Michelle Davis-Younger, who has long advocated for leveraging the airport as an economic engine for Manassas. “We’re making decisions now that will shape the future of our city for generations.”
The council’s latest votes allow the airport to continue formalizing agreements, completing FAA compliance steps, and preparing a public rollout plan.
The next milestones expected in early 2026 include:
- Final FAA documentation and inspections
- Infrastructure design approvals
- Public presentations on service levels, routes, and timelines
- Airline partner negotiations
If all goes as planned, the first commercial flights from Manassas could launch in 2027.
