Avelo Airlines opens base of operations at ILM

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — An airline that operates flights out of Wilmington International Airport made a big announcement on Thursday and it attracted the attention of Governor Josh Stein.

Avelo Airlines announced it’s opening a base of operations at ILM.

This means two aircraft operated by the airline will be kept at the airport, with both returning to be parked at ILM every night.

The new change will eventually create about 50 new jobs ranging from flight crew to mechanics.

That will offer lots of new jobs in the Cape Fear.

This is the first base of operations opened by any airline at ILM.

Brian Davis is Avelo’s chief commercial officer.

He said the company decided to place a base at ILM because of strong passenger support.

“That’s the reason why is the customers gave us a try and I think it’s safe to say they love the product, they loved what they experienced,” Davis said. “The ease, the reliability of the Avelo service, the great crew members in flight helping make sure they have a wonderful experience.”

Thursday’s news comes less than 3 years after Avelo first began operating out of ILM.

Airport director Jeff Bourk said this speaks to the expansion and growth of the airport in recent years.

“It’s been a passion since I got here 3, a little over 3 years ago and we’ve been all working so hard,” Bourk said. “We got a great team of people at ILM and to, to grow that fast. You think of any business to grow 58% in just a matter of a few years.”

Governor Josh Stein spoke during the announcement and said it will help not just Wilmington but the rest of the Cape Fear region.

“When that happens, we get visitors, tourists who come here and they spend their money on local businesses,” Stein said. “But it also helps businesses to know that if they settle here in Wilmington, they can remain connected to the rest of the country, rest of the world. We are so excited about this growth that is happening in southeast North Carolina.”

Davis said future expansion of the base could occur if the company continues to see strong demand for flights from ILM.