City of Oklahoma City, OK
02/23/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 02/23/2024 08:51
Federal Inspection Station project begins at Will Rogers World Airport
Will Rogers World Airport is one step closer to offering direct international flights in and out of Oklahoma City.
The Oklahoma City Airport Trust released bid documents for the construction of a Federal Inspection Station at the Airport (OKC). The international gate will be staffed by Customs and Boarder Protection and is expected to open by the end of 2024.
The terminal expansion completed in 2021, included a gate and boarding bridge to accommodate international flights. This phase will construct the space on the lower level of the terminal where international passengers will be cleared for entry into the United States.
"This project will bring non-stop international flights to Oklahoma City," Director of Airports Jeff Mulder said. "This will raise our profile as a community and provide a great amenity for our residents and visitors."
The anticipated cost for the project is $12 million and will be funded by Airport revenues.
International flights from OKC
Airport staff have met with airlines over the last year to recruit them for new service. The targeted markets include non-stop flights to Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America.
Mulder indicated WRWA already has many leisure travelers from Central Oklahoma who travel to Mexico and the Caribbean through airline hubs.
Oklahoma City is also home to a Mexican consulate and a Guatemalan consulate.
"Non-stop International flights to leisure destinations will give our customers a better travel experience," Mulder said. "We also have a growing population of residents from Mexico and Central America who live in Central Oklahoma that will benefit from these flights."
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Media Contact:
Stacey Hamm
Office (405) 316-3262 / cell: (405) 249-5209