The Hampton Roads-Norfolk Airport Task Force is a private sector initiative whose mission is to assist the Norfolk Airport Authority in enhancing commercial air service for Hampton Roads. It was born out of the recognition that improved commercial air service for Hampton Roads is vitally important to the future economic competitiveness of the region.

The Hampton Roads-Norfolk Airport Task Force consists of business leaders throughout Hampton Roads, including representatives from the Virginia Beach Vision, Inc., the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, the Portsmouth Partnership, Greater Norfolk Corporation, Hampton Roads Economic Development Alliance, Hampton Roads Maritime Association and Suffolk Tomorrow. It is modeled after the Washington Airport Task Force, a similar initiative in the Washington, D.C. area that has successfully advanced the quality and scope of air service at both Dulles and Washington National airports.

The primary goal of the Task Force is to establish the Hampton Roads area as a more competitive business and market center by improving and expanding its overall level of air service. By making air travel to and from Norfolk International Airport more accessible, convenient and cost-effective to both national and international destinations, the Hampton Roads region can significantly enhance its ability to successfully compete in the global economy.

Among the Task Force's specific goals are expanded routes and more carriers; improved and increased international connection options; more competitive air fares; and an overall heightened perception of Norfolk International as a "business friendly" airport. Activities undertaken by the Task Force to date include assisting the Airport Authority in documenting both the level and mode of travel between Hampton Roads and the Washington metro area as part of an ongoing effort to decrease fares and increase service between Hampton Roads and Washington National Airport.
The Task Force's Work Plan includes co-sponsoring with the Norfolk Airport Authority an Airport Breakfast Seminar Series, partnering with the Airport Authority in a legislative lobbying effort, and assisting the Authority in marketing calls to targeted airline prospects.

For more information, call the Hampton Roads-Norfolk Airport Task Force office at (757) 622-2242.