Manassas Airport Plans to Launch Commercial Flights in 2026

Key Takeaways

• Manassas Regional Airport to launch commercial flights in January 2026 after a $125 million terminal expansion.
• FAA inspection in May 2025 critical for obtaining Part 139 Certification to begin scheduled passenger service.
• Initial flights to Orlando and Las Vegas planned with up to 10 daily commercial flights.

Manassas Regional Airport Set to Launch Commercial Flights in 2026: What Travelers, Residents, and Businesses Need to Know

Manassas Regional Airport is preparing to welcome commercial flights for the first time in over three decades, with the official launch now expected in January 2026. This marks a major shift for the airport, which has long served as Virginia’s busiest general aviation hub. The move comes after years of planning, a $125 million terminal expansion, and a new public-private partnership designed to bring scheduled passenger service to the growing city of Manassas.

Airport officials confirmed the new timeline at a City Council work session on May 20, 2025, citing ongoing construction, infrastructure upgrades, and changes in federal regulations as the main reasons for pushing back the original 2025 target. The airport is now in the final stages of a complex transition process, with a major inspection by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) scheduled for late May 2025. This inspection is a critical step toward obtaining the required Part 139 Certification, which is mandatory for any airport that wants to offer regular commercial flights.

Let’s break down what this means for travelers, local residents, businesses, and the broader region.

Why Manassas Regional Airport Is Adding Commercial Flights

The decision to bring commercial flights to Manassas Regional Airport is driven by several factors:

• Population Growth: Manassas is one of the fastest-growing cities in the region. Mayor Michelle Davis-Younger has emphasized that “this city is moving forward. This city is growing. People are coming here by the droves. Businesses want to move here. We have to be ready for it.”
• Travel Convenience: Currently, residents must travel to larger airports like Dulles, Reagan National, or Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) for most commercial flights. Direct flights from Manassas will save time and offer more choices.
• Economic Opportunity: The airport expansion is expected to create hundreds of jobs and generate over $40 million in annual tax revenue, supporting the city’s economic development goals.

What’s Changing at the Airport?

Terminal Expansion and New Facilities

A major part of the transformation is the construction of a new terminal, funded by a $125 million investment. This terminal will feature:

• 4–6 gates for boarding and deplaning
• Modern passenger amenities, including waiting areas, food options, and retail
• Expanded parking and improved access roads
• Enhanced security and safety features

The terminal is expected to be fully operational by late 2025, just ahead of the first scheduled commercial flights in January 2026.

Public-Private Partnership

The City of Manassas has entered into a 40-year franchise agreement with Avports Manassas, LLC, a subsidiary of Goldman Sachs. Under this deal:

• Avports will operate and maintain the new terminal and related facilities
• The company is responsible for all costs related to construction and ongoing operations
• No taxpayer funding is required for the terminal or operational upgrades

This partnership model is seen as a way to bring private-sector expertise and efficiency to the project, while allowing the city to focus on oversight and long-term planning.

The Federal Aviation Administration’s Role

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) plays a central role in the airport’s transition to commercial service. Before any scheduled passenger flights can begin, the airport must obtain Part 139 Certification. This certification ensures that the airport meets strict federal standards for safety, security, and operations.

The process includes:

• A comprehensive inspection of the airport’s runways, taxiways, lighting, and safety systems
• Review of emergency response plans and staff training
• Verification that the airport can safely handle commercial aircraft and passenger volumes

The FAA inspection is scheduled for late May 2025. If the airport passes, it will receive the green light to begin commercial operations.

For more information about the certification process, readers can visit the FAA’s official Part 139 Certification page.

What Flights Will Be Offered?

The first commercial flights from Manassas Regional Airport are expected to launch in January 2026. Initial routes will include direct service to:

• Orlando
• Las Vegas

These destinations were chosen based on strong demand for leisure travel and the popularity of these cities among local residents. Up to 10 commercial flights per day are planned in the initial phase, with the possibility of adding more routes and airline partners as demand grows.

Step-by-Step: How Manassas Regional Airport Is Preparing for Commercial Service

The transition from a general aviation airport to one that serves commercial flights is a complex process. Here’s how the airport is making it happen:

1. Terminal Construction: The $125 million expansion includes new gates, parking, and passenger amenities. Construction is on track to finish by late 2025.
2. FAA Part 139 Certification: The airport is working closely with the FAA to meet all safety and operational requirements. The inspection in May 2025 is the final hurdle before certification.
3. TSA Federalization: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is installing screening equipment and assigning security staff to the new terminal.
4. CBP Coordination: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will provide customs services for international private flights and prepare for future commercial needs.
5. Operational Readiness: The airport is finalizing staffing, training, and operational protocols to ensure a smooth launch.
6. Route Launch: Direct flights to Orlando and Las Vegas will begin in January 2026, with more destinations likely to follow.

Who’s Involved? Key Stakeholders and Their Roles

Several groups and individuals are playing important roles in the airport’s transition:

• City of Manassas: Owns the airport and oversees the franchise agreement with Avports.
• Avports Manassas, LLC: Responsible for building, operating, and maintaining the new terminal and related facilities.
• Juan Rivera (Airport Director): Leading the transition and providing regular updates to city officials.
• Roderick Hall (Chairman, Airport Commission): Overseeing certification and compliance efforts.
• Mayor Michelle Davis-Younger: Strong supporter of the project, highlighting its benefits for the city’s growth.
• FAA: Conducting inspections and ensuring the airport meets all federal requirements.
• TSA and CBP: Providing security and customs services for the new commercial operations.

What Does This Mean for Local Residents?

For people living in and around Manassas, the arrival of commercial flights brings both benefits and concerns.

Benefits

• Convenience: Residents will have direct access to popular destinations without the need to drive to larger, more crowded airports.
• Potentially Lower Fares: Increased competition may lead to better prices for travelers.
• Economic Growth: The project is expected to create hundreds of jobs, both at the airport and in related industries like hospitality, retail, and transportation.

Concerns

• Noise and Traffic: Some residents worry about increased noise from jet engines and more traffic on local roads.
• Environmental Impact: There are questions about how the expansion will affect air quality and local ecosystems.

City officials and airport leaders have promised to address these concerns through careful planning, noise abatement measures, and ongoing community engagement.

Impact on the Local Economy and Business Community

The airport’s expansion is expected to have a major positive impact on the local economy:

• Job Creation: Hundreds of new jobs will be created, both directly at the airport and indirectly in supporting industries.
• Tax Revenue: The project is projected to generate over $40 million in annual tax revenue for the city and region.
• Business Growth: Companies like GHS Aviation Group are already expanding operations in anticipation of increased activity. The airport is also expected to attract new businesses, especially those in the aerospace and logistics sectors.

According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, the Manassas Regional Airport project is seen as a model for how public-private partnerships can drive economic development while minimizing risk to taxpayers.

How Will Travelers Be Affected?

Travelers using Manassas Regional Airport for commercial flights will notice several changes:

• New Security Procedures: TSA will provide screening for all passengers, similar to what is found at larger airports.
• Modern Passenger Experience: The new terminal will offer comfortable waiting areas, food and retail options, and improved parking.
• Customs Services: CBP will be available to process international private flights, with plans to expand services as needed.

These changes are designed to make the airport experience smooth, safe, and convenient for all passengers.

Background: How Did We Get Here?

Manassas Regional Airport has a long history as Virginia’s busiest general aviation airport, handling about 100,000 flights per year. For more than 30 years, it has not offered scheduled commercial service.

The push to add commercial flights began in 2021, when city leaders recognized the need to support the area’s rapid growth. After extensive planning and public input, the City Council approved a franchise agreement with Avports in 2023. Construction began soon after, but the original plan to launch flights in 2025 was delayed due to construction challenges and evolving federal requirements.

Now, with the project in its final phase, the airport is on track to welcome its first commercial passengers in early 2026.

Multiple Perspectives: Support and Concerns

City Officials

City leaders are strongly supportive of the airport’s expansion, pointing to the economic and travel benefits. Mayor Davis-Younger and Airport Director Juan Rivera have both spoken publicly about the importance of preparing for the city’s future growth.

Business Community

Local businesses, especially those in aviation and related fields, are excited about the new opportunities. Many see the airport as a key driver of regional growth and a way to attract new companies to the area.

Residents

Opinions among residents are mixed. Some welcome the convenience and economic benefits, while others worry about noise, traffic, and environmental impacts. City officials have promised to keep the community informed and involved as the project moves forward.

Aviation Experts

Industry experts view the Manassas project as part of a larger trend toward developing secondary airports in major metro areas. They point to Avports’ success at similar airports, like Tweed New Haven, as a positive sign for Manassas.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Manassas Regional Airport?

Short-Term (2025–2026):
– FAA inspection and certification expected by mid-2025
– Terminal construction completed by late 2025
– First commercial flights to Orlando and Las Vegas in January 2026

Medium-Term (2026–2028):
– Possible expansion of routes and airline partners based on passenger demand
– Continued growth of airport-related businesses

Long-Term (2028 and Beyond):
– Integration into the broader Washington, DC regional air transport network
– Ongoing development of the airport’s aerospace business corridor

Practical Information and Resources

For those interested in learning more or staying updated on the project, here are some useful contacts and resources:

• Manassas Regional Airport
  • Address: 10600 Harry J. Parrish Blvd, Manassas, VA 20110
  • Phone: (703) 361-1882
  • Website: manassasva.gov/airport
• Avports
  • Website: avports.com
• City of Manassas
  • Website: manassasva.gov
• FAA Part 139 Certification Info: faa.gov/airports/airport_safety/part139_cert

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

• Manassas Regional Airport will begin commercial flights in January 2026, with direct service to Orlando and Las Vegas.
• The airport is completing a $125 million terminal expansion and working through the final steps of the FAA’s Part 139 certification process.
• The project is expected to bring major economic benefits, create jobs, and offer new travel options for local residents.
• Stakeholders include city officials, Avports, the FAA, TSA, CBP, local businesses, and the community.
• Residents and travelers can expect modern facilities, improved convenience, and new security procedures.
• For more information, visit the Manassas Regional Airport website or the FAA’s Part 139 Certification page.

As Manassas Regional Airport prepares for this historic transition, the eyes of the region—and the aviation industry—are watching closely. The success of this project could serve as a blueprint for other cities looking to expand air service and support local growth.

Learn Today

Part 139 Certification → Federal approval ensuring airports meet safety and operational standards for commercial flights.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) → U.S. government agency regulating all aspects of civil aviation and airport safety.
Public-Private Partnership → Collaborative agreement between government and private sector to fund and operate airport facilities.
Transportation Security Administration (TSA) → Federal agency responsible for screening passengers and baggage at airports.
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) → Agency managing international travelers’ customs inspections and border security.

This Article in a Nutshell

Manassas Regional Airport prepares for commercial service launching January 2026, after $125 million terminal upgrade. FAA certification and security enhancements are ongoing, targeting flights to Orlando and Las Vegas. This marks a major shift, creating jobs and boosting local economy while improving travel convenience for residents and businesses.
— By VisaVerge.com