Mesa Gateway Airport rebrands after City of Phoenix exits partnership

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Mesa Gateway Airport rebrands after City of Phoenix exits partnership

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By Sky Industry News

Dec 29, 2024

Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport has officially rebranded itself as Mesa Gateway Airport following the City of Phoenix's withdrawal from its partnership. This decision was made by the airport authority board last week, marking a strategic shift aimed at preparing the airport for future growth and development.

The renaming aligns with Mesa and the East Valley's growing reputation as a prime location for business investment, supported by major employers such as Amazon, ASU, Banner, Boeing, LG Energy Solution, and Northrop Grumman. The airport stated: “This name change aligns perfectly with Mesa and the East Valley’s growing reputation as a prime location for business investment and development.”

Mesa Gateway Airport serves as an operating base for Allegiant Air, an American ultra-low-cost carrier that offers year-round and seasonal flights. Sun Country Airlines also operates seasonal flights to Minneapolis St. Paul from this airport. Avelo Airlines briefly operated services from May 3 to August 16 in 2021.

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With Phoenix's withdrawal from the partnership comes a reduction of $1.3 million in annual funding; however, this accounts for only about 1% of the airport's operating budget. Despite this change, Mesa Gateway Airport is experiencing significant growth. In June alone, 158,000 passengers passed through its gates, contributing to over 1.8 million commercial passengers so far this year—a figure second only to 2023 when it saw 1.9 million passengers.

Recent developments at the airport include a new concourse adding five gates and runway reconstruction funded partly by a federal grant—one of its most expensive projects yet. Two years ago, a new control tower was constructed to support increased air traffic.

The greater Phoenix area has seen an influx of tourists totaling 4.4 million visitors who have contributed significantly to local employment and spending.

As Allegiant Air remains pivotal at Mesa Gateway Airport with service to 45 direct destinations, there are hopes to attract more airlines soon. Visit Mesa CEO emphasized: “The renaming of Mesa Gateway Airport marks an exciting new chapter in our region’s tourism story... As more travelers discover the unique experiences... having an airport that authentically represents our identity while providing convenient access... sets the stage for continued tourism growth."

Previously known under different names including Williams Gateway and Williams Air Force Base, Mesa Gateway Airport is located in Maricopa County approximately 20 miles southeast of Phoenix.