Support Us Button Widget

Three ‘takeoffs’ from Blue Grass Airport’s economic impact study

Last week, our airport revealed the findings of its economic impact study after 1.3 million passengers flew to and from Lexington last year.

Blue Grass Airport 2022

The study utilizes three metrics to study Blue Grass Airport’s economic impact. | Photo courtesy of Blue Grass Airport

Last week, the Blue Grass Airport revealed the findings of its 2023 economic impact study conducted by aviation consulting firm Mead & Hunt. In addition to the record-level travel our city saw last year, it also measured its success through three factors.

Employment

The study found that the airport supported 4,745 jobs. This figure also featured part-time positions — where two part-time positions equaled one full-time position. Roles ranged from within airlines, concessions, airport administration, car rental associates, and maintenance.

Output

The airport racked up $709 million in output, aka the revenue made from costs related to travel. The study categorizes two different sources of economic impact: direct and multiplier. Direct refers to on-site revenue from employees, airlines, flight departments + schools, and more. Multiplier refers to the spending and recirculating of revenue in our economy.

Payroll

Overall, employees received $180 million in annual salary, wages, and benefits. This includes professionals working both within direct and multiplier outputs.

More from LEXtoday
Help keep Lexington’s waterways clean by painting a local storm drain with important pollution prevention messaging.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Spoiler alert: Traffic isn’t great. We dove into the Texas A&M Transportation Institute’s congestion data so you don’t have to.
Including gifts for significant others, retirees, holiday parties, young people, and gifts that ship fast.
From downtown stops to airport routes, Lextran makes navigating the city simple. Learn how to plan your trip, find fares, and make the most of public transit.
Stock up on fresh, local flavors at Lexington’s top farm shops. Family farms and markets offer seasonal picks and homemade treats.
From tiny homes to 21c, Lexington is full of special places to stay that offer guests a break from traditional motels and hotels.
Have a night full of treats — not tricks — whether you’re trick-or-treating, passing candy out, or just avoiding the extra traffic.
You don’t have to travel to the Napa Valley for that true vineyard experience — just outside of Lexington seven wineries are ready to host you for glasses, tastings, and tours.
Lexington rent prices can vary widely depending on where you live. Here’s a look at the priciest, most affordable, and most popular neighborhoods in the city.