Here’s a recap of the top stories for the week of July 17, 2026:
Regional airport commission weigh-in on a swath of RIC construction projects
Reported by Richmond BizSense’s Mike Platania
A number of new additions are coming to Richmond International Airport — including security improvements, nearly $1 billion in new construction projects, new food and beverage operators, and even new transatlantic flights.
The Capital Region Airport Commission, the governing body that oversees RIC’s long- and short-term goals, discussed these upcoming developments during its annual retreat.
The two-day meeting took place July 9–10 at the Hilton Richmond Hotel in Short Pump.
RIC’s efforts include its bid to secure a flight that crosses over the Atlantic Ocean. Although the endeavor has gained steam in recent years, a combination of private and state funding would be needed to secure a permanent route.
The commission also talked about new food and beverage options. A high demand for coffee from early flight-goers has prompted RIC to bring in additional concessions.
RIC is also in the process of constructing new parking decks and a consolidated security checkpoint— a $200 million project that will transform the airport’s main atrium with a grand hall, a second floor, administrative offices and more.
The commission also discussed an update to the airport master plan, a planning document that hasn’t been updated since 2009.
This comes as the commission weighs in on eventual developments surrounding the site and and geopolitical forces impacting fuel prices and flight paths across US airlines.
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