Esterly: VIA is making the world more accessible from the Rio Grande Valley

I’m Marv Esterly, director of aviation at Valley International Airport. I’m delighted to highlight the transformative developments we’ve implemented to enhance our services and facilities, ensuring Valley International Airport continues to be a gateway of choice in South Texas.

Our newly remodeled VIP Lounge features serene and comfortable seating and a QR code menu system for easy access to our enhanced food and beverage services.

Additionally, we upgraded our parking facilities with new covered parking and comprehensive resurfacing, making your first and last steps at Valley International Airport as smooth as possible.

The Valley Aerospace Center, formerly home to United Launch Alliance, is ushering in a new era. In partnership with the (Harlingen) Economic Development Corporation and JLL we are turning this space into a vibrant hub for both aeronautical and non-aeronautical activity, soon to create jobs and drive economic growth.

We’ve revamped our terminals concessions to provide a broader array of dining and shopping options, enhancing your airport experience.

The recent groundbreaking of our new state of the art air traffic control tower represents a transformative step in our commitment to operational excellence and safety. This advanced facility is more than a building. It’s the future nerve center of our aerospace management.

By extending our longest runway, we can now accommodate larger wide-bodied aircraft and significantly boost our capabilities for air cargo operations.

The installation of two new instrument landing systems that support category two operations marks a critical enhancement to our navigational capabilities. With our expanding air service portfolio, including new routes to major cities, we’re making the world more accessible from the Rio Grande Valley.

Thanks to the strategic enhancements, Valley International Airport has seen unprecedented passenger growth, currently boasting a 56% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels. This significant achievement underscores our resilience and continued prosperity.

We continue to work closely with our representatives. Together, we’re advocating in Washington to ensure a level playing field for all primary commercial service airports along the southern and northern borders.

At Valley International Airport, we’re not merely preparing for the future. We’re actively shaping it. Join us as we continue to advance, connect and elevate the traveling experience for all who pass through our doors.

Editor’s Note: The above commentary was provided by Marv Esterly, aviation director for Valley International Airport. Esterly made the comments in a video message for Harlingen Mayor Norma Sepulveda’s 2024 State of the City Address. After the video was shown on the big screen, Sepulveda called Esterly a “superstar” for Harlingen.

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