First Flight takes off from new Alpena County Airport Terminal
ALPENA, Mich. — After months of work, community members were finally able to experience the brand new and very convenient Alpena County Airport Terminal. The first flight out of the new terminal took off around 1:50 Tuesday afternoon.
Community members gathered in the lobby as they waited to board their connecting flight to Detroit. One passenger heading to Orlando says, even just waiting to get on his flight was significantly more comfortable than before.
“It was getting a little crowded, especially as traffic levels are picking up out of the airport here, allowing us space so we don’t have to be just elbow to elbow with people,” says passenger, Dean Robinson.
The new terminal offers an open seating area, numerous outlets to charge electronics, and other conveniences that travelers look for while commuting. The space even houses a contemporary fireplace, allowing visitors a sense of warmth and comfort the old building lacked. Airport Manager, Steve Smigelski, says he feels good knowing people are not restricted and uncomfortable.
“The best thing is, you can just tell that with all the additional space and all the additional light, the folks that are here waiting for the plane, they’re just happier and its just a nice experience for them and I’m just glad we we’re able to offer this.”
Smigelski added that he expects more passengers to fly out of Alpena in the future, and encourages everyone to take a look at building after the ribbon cutting ceremony in May.
