Airport is catalyst for growth

April 28, 2009

By Staff Reports

It's no secret that Memphis International Airport is one of the crown jewels of the metro area.
The most recent economic impact study, commissioned by the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority, makes it clear that, even in challenging financial times, the airport remains the economic driver for Greater Memphis.

Not only does it create jobs and spur commerce, but the airport, combined with FedEx, is responsible for one in three jobs in Greater Memphis.

According to the 2007 study, the airport also directly or indirectly pumped more than $28 billion into the five-county metro area's economy.

In addition, according to the study, the airport is a significant player in giving Greater Memphis an international identity as America's aerotropolis.

That simply means the community's expanding economic development initiatives should flow directly from the airport.

And the effort appears to be paying off. In 2011, Memphis will host the prestigious Airport Cities World Conference. The 2009 conference is being held this week in Athens, Greece.

With Memphis seemingly on every negative list these days, it's refreshing to know that the airport serves as a major catalyst for growth in a global economy.


	home flight information passenger information directions and parking shop, dine and relax business opportunities about the airport FAQ Privacy Policy Contact Us Airport is catalyst for growth April 28, 2009 By Staff Reports It's no secret that Memphis International Airport is one of the crown jewels of the metro area. The most recent economic impact study, commissioned by the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority, makes it clear that, even in challenging financial times, the airport remains the economic driver for Greater Memphis. Not only does it create jobs and spur commerce, but the airport, combined with FedEx, is responsible for one in three jobs in Greater Memphis. According to the 2007 study, the airport also directly or indirectly pumped more than $28 billion into the five-county metro area's economy. In addition, according to the study, the airport is a significant player in giving Greater Memphis an international identity as America's aerotropolis. That simply means the community's expanding economic development initiatives should flow directly from the airport. And the effort appears to be paying off. In 2011, Memphis will host the prestigious Airport Cities World Conference. The 2009 conference is being held this week in Athens, Greece. With Memphis seemingly on every negative list these days, it's refreshing to know that the airport serves as a major catalyst for growth in a global economy. Copyright, The Commercial Appeal, Memphis, TN. Used with permission.