The ticket counter for Avelo Airlines at Concord-Padgett Regional Airport was buzzing on a recent Wednesday morning, with a steady line of travelers preparing to board a flight to San Juan, Puerto Rico. Among those observing the scene was Avelo’s CEO and founder, Andrew Levy, visiting the Charlotte-area suburb for the first time.

Levy spent time in the terminal watching passengers move quickly through security—an experience he said highlights one of the airport’s biggest advantages: simplicity. Compared to the busy and often crowded Charlotte Douglas International Airport, Concord offers a far more streamlined travel experience.

“You park right outside, walk in, and your gate is right there,” Levy said. “It’s hard to beat that level of convenience.”

Since launching operations in Cabarrus County in May 2024, the Houston-based airline has carried more than 230,000 passengers across over 2,000 flights. After serving around 105,000 travelers through Concord last year, Levy expects that number to nearly double to 200,000 in 2026.

He described the Charlotte region as a “boom town,” citing strong population growth, business opportunities, and an attractive labor market. According to Levy, the area has made it easy for Avelo to recruit pilots, flight attendants, technicians, and airport staff.

Expanding Presence in the Charlotte Region

Although this marked Levy’s first physical visit to the airport, he has been familiar with it for years. He previously served as president of Allegiant Air when the carrier began operations in Concord more than a decade ago.

Following a restructuring plan earlier this year, Avelo doubled down on its commitment to the region. The airline closed bases in Wilmington and Raleigh-Durham, reallocating resources to expand its Concord operations.

As part of that growth, Avelo stationed two aircraft at the airport in late 2024—a move expected to create about 90 local jobs, including pilots, flight attendants, and ground crew positions. Plans are also underway to increase capacity by upgrading from 149-seat Boeing 737-700 aircraft to larger 189-seat 737-800 models. A third aircraft is expected to be added to support peak travel seasons.

Looking Ahead

Levy said the airline hopes to add more routes from Concord, though future expansion will depend on acquiring additional aircraft. Avelo has already placed orders for new Embraer jets, with deliveries expected around 2028.

Still, the airport’s size presents some limitations. Concord-Padgett Regional Airport operates with a single runway and currently serves only a handful of carriers, including Avelo, Allegiant, and Sun Country.

“It’s a small airport, and there’s only so much it can grow without significant investment,” Levy noted.

As passenger traffic increases, he expects upgrades may be needed, particularly in areas like parking and baggage claim. Even so, Levy believes Concord will remain a valuable alternative to Charlotte Douglas, one of the busiest airports in the world.

“This will never be CLT—and it doesn’t need to be,” he said. “But for people in the area, it’s a much easier option. Once you’re here, everything is simple.”

Enhancing the Travel Experience

Avelo’s expansion strategy is closely tied to the performance of its existing routes, including destinations like Albany, New York; New Haven, Connecticut; and Lakeland/Orlando, Florida.

Levy noted that Charlotte’s status as a major American Airlines hub often results in higher fares due to limited competition. Avelo aims to fill that gap by offering more affordable options, particularly on shorter routes of two to three hours across Florida, Texas, and the Midwest.

In addition to expanding routes, the airline is also investing in the passenger experience. By summer, Avelo plans to introduce onboard snacks and beverages, as well as seating options with extra legroom. These upgrades follow the recent launch of a rewards credit card and a subscription program offering discounted fares.

Levy emphasized that the airport’s growth is not just beneficial for travelers, but for the broader local economy.

“We’re bringing in people who might not have traveled otherwise—or who are traveling more often because it’s easier and more affordable,” he said. “That creates a ripple effect for local businesses, from restaurants to gas stations. Travel and tourism are powerful economic drivers, and we’re proud to contribute to that growth here.”