Richmond International Airport is moving closer to launching direct flights to Europe, with London Heathrow as the likely first destination. As of July 31, 2025, airport leaders, state officials, and business groups are working together to make this long-awaited route a reality within the next 12 to 24 months.
The Capital Region Airport Commission recently held a two-day meeting focused on establishing a direct transatlantic route. Troy Bell, RIC’s Director of Marketing & Air Service Development, explained, “There’s a ton of interest for travel, nonstop flights from Richmond to Europe, I mean, directly over the Atlantic.” New, smaller long-range aircraft now make this possible for the first time. The airport is surveying the community to measure demand and is talking with state leaders, including Governor Glenn Youngkin, about funding and support.
Perry Miller, RIC’s CEO, said, “We’re well on our way to doing this,” showing strong commitment and progress in talks with airlines and government partners. However, as of now, no direct flights from Richmond to Europe have started. Travelers still need to connect through other airports, with about 375,000 people from the Richmond area using Dulles or other hubs each year.
Nonstop service to Bermuda began
Airport leaders and officials working on direct flights
Customs upgrades finished
Possible route announcement
Potential start of direct flights
The only international nonstop service from Richmond International Airport is to Bermuda, which began in June 2025. Virgin Atlantic and other airlines list Richmond-London Heathrow fares for fall 2025, but these flights require connections. No true direct flights are bookable yet.
Key groups involved include:
– Capital Region Airport Commission: Leading talks, community outreach, and planning.
– Greater Richmond Partnership: Sharing data on business demand, noting over 230 European-owned facilities in the region and new projects like LEGO’s plant in Chesterfield.
– State Government: Governor Youngkin’s office and the Secretary of Commerce and Trade are discussing subsidies, as airlines need financial help to start new transatlantic routes.
– Local Businesses: Expected to help with risk funding, since FAA rules stop the airport from directly paying airlines.
FAA rules mean airports can’t directly pay for new international routes. Instead, local and state governments or business groups must provide risk funding. Other states have attracted international flights by offering multi-million-dollar incentive packages. Richmond International Airport can offer marketing help and temporary fee waivers but can’t cover all airline risks.
The process includes:
1. Community Survey: Ongoing to measure interest and possible passenger numbers.
2. Stakeholder Engagement: Working with state officials and business leaders to build a funding package.
3. Airline Negotiations: Talking with major airlines like British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Delta, United, and American.
4. Infrastructure Readiness: Customs upgrades finished in 2024, so the airport is ready for international arrivals.
5. Route Announcement: If funding and airline deals are made, an announcement could come by late 2025, with flights possible in 2026.
Airport officials point to the economic benefits of direct European flights, while business leaders say these routes are key for global competitiveness. State officials are open to subsidy talks, seeing the wider economic impact.
For official updates and more details, visit the Richmond International Airport website. As reported by VisaVerge.com, continued community and business support will be vital for launching direct flights to London Heathrow and beyond.
Learn Today
Richmond International Airport → An airport serving Richmond, Virginia, aiming to start direct European flights soon.
Direct Flights → Flights traveling nonstop between two airports without layovers or connections.
FAA Rules → Regulations by the Federal Aviation Administration restricting airport payments to airlines for routes.
Transatlantic Route → An air route crossing the Atlantic Ocean connecting North America and Europe.
Customs Upgrades → Improvements to airport border control allowing direct processing of international passengers.
This Article in a Nutshell
Richmond International Airport is preparing for direct flights to Europe, focusing on London Heathrow. Community surveys and government talks aim to secure funding. FAA rules require external risk funding; the airport offers marketing support. Flights may launch by 2026 after successful airline negotiations and infrastructure readiness, enhancing local travel options.
— By VisaVerge.com
