New Braunfels National Airport fuels local economy

The Federal Aviation Administration’s reclassification means that the New Braunfels National Airport is deemed as a “key player” in the entirety of the national airport system, Lee added. Not only does that mean the airport handles international flights, but it also means they have access to more federal grant funding.

"Had we been a regional airport when the infrastructure money went out, we would have gotten $285,000 per year for five years. As a national [airport] we [get] $764,000 a year. Basically in a five-year period, we qualify for $3.5 million in funding," he said.

A closer look

In fiscal year 2017-18, the airport was averaging about 4,500 in operations a month, totaling 54,000 operations for the year. In fiscal year 2023-24, the airport was averaging over 6,500 operations a month, which is an indicator that more aircrafts are using the airport and more businesses are coming to New Braunfels, Lee said.

“As the airport grows, it’s indicative of city growth, but it also entices companies that have an aviation arm to use New Braunfels,” he added.

Based on first quarter averages, the New Braunfels National Airport is on track to conclude the fiscal year with 85,000 operations in 2024-25, Lee noted.

The impact

With over $56 million in private investment at the airport today, general aviation is an "integral" part of New Braunfels’ local economy, said Jeff Jewell, director of economic and community development.

The New Braunfels National Airport helps keep property tax rates down while supporting local businesses. As the airport grows and more businesses continue to use it, the commercial activity and economic impact of the airport also grows, Jewell said.

“The city is able to collect more resources in order to improve services throughout the community and doesn’t have to pass that cost onto other property owners in the city,” he added.