Will Rogers World Airport (WRWA) is on the cusp of a significant milestone, one that will greatly enhance the city's connectivity and elevate its status as a regional hub. The Oklahoma City Airport Trust has recently released bid documents for the construction of a Federal Inspection Station at the airport, a crucial step towards offering direct international flights in and out of the city. This development is part of a broader expansion project that began in 2021 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2024. 

"Direct international flights are critical when we look at continuing to grow our economy,” said Greater Oklahoma City Chamber President & CEO Christy Gillenwater. “They give us the ability to help existing companies expand and recruit existing companies to Oklahoma City. Nonstop flights are also paramount to our visitor traffic.” 

The terminal expansion completed in 2021 included a gate and boarding bridge specifically designed to accommodate international flights. This next phase of construction will focus on creating the necessary infrastructure on the lower level of the terminal where international passengers will be cleared for entry into the United States. The project, with an anticipated cost of $12 million, will be funded by airport revenues. 

"This will raise our profile as a community and provide a great amenity for our residents and visitors," said Jeff Mulder, director of airports. 

The airport staff has been actively engaging with airlines over the past year to recruit them for new service. The targeted markets for these international flights include nonstop destinations in Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America. Mulder noted that WRWA already serves many leisure travelers from Central Oklahoma who travel to Mexico and the Caribbean through airline hubs. 

Oklahoma City is home to both a Mexican consulate and a Guatemalan consulate, underscoring the city's strong ties to these regions. "Nonstop international flights to leisure destinations will give our customers a better travel experience," Mulder said. "We also have a growing population of residents from Mexico and Central America who live in Central Oklahoma that will benefit from these flights." 

The addition of direct international flights at Will Rogers will not only make travel more convenient for residents but also open new opportunities for economic growth and cultural exchange. As Oklahoma City continues to grow and evolve, this development will play a crucial role in shaping its future as a vibrant and globally connected city. 

This story originally ran on VeloCityOKC.com.