Norfolk International Airport
Norfolk International Airport, or ORF, is an airport in Virginia. Categorized by the FAA as a small-hub primary commercial service facility, it is the fourth-busiest airport in Virginia. The airline with the most passenger traffic is Delta Air Lines, followed by Southwest Airlines and American Airlines, respectively. There are two concourses, with 25 gates in total. In 2017, there were 67,679 aircraft operations, 39% airline, 27% air taxi, 27% general aviation, and 2% military. In November 2018, there were 95 aircraft based at the airport, 52 single-engine, 20 multi-engine, 20 jet, and three helicopters. The airport covers 1,300 acres, and there are two runways: 5/23, which is 9,001 by 150 feet (asphalt/concrete), and 14/32, which is 4,875 by 150 feet (asphalt).
Airport history
ORS originated in 1938, as the city on Truxton Manor Golf Course was converted into an airport. Named Norfolk Municipal Airport, it featured a 3500-foot runway, and the renovated clubhouse was used as a passenger terminal by Penn Central Airlines, which is now known as United Airlines. In 1940 the first permanent terminal was completed. In WWII, the Army Air Corps took over the airport, extending the runway and adding two more to be able to handle more and larger aircraft. The takeover extended until 1947, at which point the airport was returned to the city. In 1948, the airport was serviced by two commercial airlines, one of which was Piedmont Airlines.
Furthermore, ground was broken that year for a more modern terminal. In 1950, management of the airport was handed over to the Norfolk Port and Industrial Authority. The following year, the new terminal was completed and dedicated. In the 1960s, the transition to jets necessitated that the runways be extended and the taxiways strengthened. As such, in 1968, the airport was recognized as the official air transportation center for the entire region and was thereby renamed Norfolk Regional Airport.
Furthermore, a master plan was created in anticipation of the 21st Century. In 1974 a new, state-of-the-art terminal was dedicated, with additional land acquired in anticipation of further expansion. Additionally, in 1976 the airport added a Federal Customs facility, and its name was changed to Norfolk International Airport. The 1980s brought about other changes, including the completion of a new air cargo terminal, a new general aviation facility, the expansion of parking facilities, and the name of the Norfolk Port and Industrial Authority being changed to the Norfolk Airport Authority. In 1991, a new concourse was completed adding ten gates for a total of 24 gates at the airport. Furthermore, parking options and the air cargo terminal were both expanded during the 90s. Other additions during this time included a new state-of-the-art fire station and a new 134-foot FAA air control tower.
Airport location
The airport is located seven miles northeast of downtown Norfolk.
Airport facts
- The FBO at ORF is Signature Flight Support, with full-service facilities for maintaining private and corporate aircraft. Everything from aircraft rental to sightseeing flights is offered.
- Despite its name, the airport does not have any international destinations.
- The airport serves the area of southeast Virginia and northeast North Carolina.
- Active duty and retired military members can enjoy the USO Lounge on the second floor.
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