Maryland Transportation Leaders Break Ground for New Air Traffic Control Tower at Martin State Airport

Major Improvement to Replace Aging Infrastructure, Enhance Safety and Efficiency

July 7, 2025– Martin State Airport today celebrated the groundbreaking of its new, state-of-the-art air traffic control tower – a significant milestone that will improve safety, modernize the airport and fuel economic growth in Maryland. The new facility will replace the airport’s existing tower, which was built in 1942 and is among the oldest active air traffic control towers in the country. The groundbreaking for the new tower was attended by Maryland transportation and aviation leaders, federal and state elected officials and Maryland Air National Guard leadership.

Photo of 11 individuals participating in a groundbreaking ceremony for a new air traffic control tower at Martin State Airport.

“The new air traffic control tower at Martin State Airport is a great accomplishment for the Maryland Aviation Administration in further improving the safety of our skies, keeping our system in working order and uplifting the state’s economy,” said Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld. “Thanks to Governor Moore’s budget, additional transportation revenues from the General Assembly and federal funding support, this new facility will be a beautiful architectural landmark that will take the airport’s business to new heights.”

Rendering of a future air traffic control tower to be built at Martin State Airport

The new tower is designed to improve visibility and accommodate personnel alongside modern air traffic management technologies. With improved functionality and a larger facility, the $22.2 million project will bolster safety and efficiency for both air traffic controllers and pilots. The air traffic control tower project is funded by the Maryland Transportation Trust Fund and Federal Aviation Administration grants.

“Our local airports boost regional commerce and drive our state’s economy. That’s why we worked to deliver federal funding to support this new air traffic control tower, which will help ensure Martin State Airport can continue to deliver safe and efficient service while spurring greater opportunity for the Airport and local businesses,” said Senator Chris Van Hollen.

“Martin State Airport is a key economic engine for the Second District and the State of Maryland as well as the long-time home of Maryland’s Air National Guard and supports our local police aviation units,” said Congressman Johnny Olszewski. “In order for it to continue supporting quality jobs, we must ensure it’s equipped with the latest technology and meets modern safety and efficiency standards. I am proud to support the federal investment needed to keep Martin State thriving.”

“This new tower will improve safety, efficiency and the overall customer experience at Martin State, a historic airport and critical aviation asset for Maryland,” said Shannetta Griffin, Executive Director and CEO of the Maryland Aviation Administration. “This project will provide air traffic controllers with the facility they need to ensure safe and efficient operations in the coming decades. I thank state and federal partners for supporting our vibrant general aviation sector.”

The State of Maryland is leading efforts to improve Martin State Airport’s infrastructure to enhance safety, efficiency and sustainability. Construction of the new tower will take about 14 months. Last year, the Runway 15-33 Rehabilitation Project completely repaved and upgraded the airport’s runway with new airfield lighting and signage.

Martin State Airport is a public use airport located about 10 miles northeast of downtown Baltimore. The airport serves general aviation, including corporate, private, law enforcement and military aircraft, along with flight schools and other aviation-related services. Martin State creates and supports about 2,300 jobs throughout the region.

AnguillAir will launch new service between BWI Marshall Airport and Anguilla, starting in December 2025.

Bermuda’s Airline Extends Island Hospitality to the Caribbean with Winter Flights from Boston and Baltimore 

 BermudAir today announced the launch of AnguillAir, a groundbreaking new brand and the airline’s first major expansion beyond Bermuda to Anguilla, a sister British Overseas Territory. 

With flights to Anguilla from Boston and Baltimore beginning this December, AnguillAir signals a powerful new era in Caribbean connectivity—one driven by BermudAir’s signature island hospitality and its vision to link island communities in meaningful and lasting ways. 

Launching December 19, 2025, BermudAir will offer flights from Boston and Baltimore, directly to Anguilla—its first scheduled destination outside of Bermuda, and a first for the airline’s growing footprint in the Caribbean region. 

Read the full article here.

 

BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport Celebrates 75 Years of Taking You There

International Gateway Marks Milestone of Connecting Communities and Powering Regional Growth

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport is proud to celebrate its 75th anniversary this year. For decades, the airport has helped shape the growth of Maryland and the National Capital region, supporting tourism and trade. Since 1950, BWI Marshall Airport has grown into a dynamic international gateway, serving millions of annual passengers and connecting people, businesses and cultures.

“BWI Marshall Airport is one of Maryland’s greatest economic engines, serving more than 27 million travelers in 2024 and leading the way with tourism, job creation and expanded business opportunities for our region,” said Governor Wes Moore. “I join Marylanders and visitors alike in celebrating the airport’s 75 years of service and look forward to the new heights BWI Marshall will exceed in the years to come.”

Photo of President Harry S. Truman speaking during a dedication event at Friendship International Airport on June 24, 1950

Originally named Friendship International Airport due to the local Friendship Methodist Church and surrounding community, President Harry S. Truman officially dedicated the airport on June 24, 1950, saying it, “exemplifies the spirit of growth and confidence with which our country faces the future.”

“Over the years, BWI Marshall Airport has grown into a critical part of Maryland’s transportation network, connecting families and businesses to life’s opportunities, and has become an economic powerhouse in growing the state’s economy,” said Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld. “This diamond anniversary is a moment for us to celebrate the airport’s past and look forward to its future.”

“This anniversary reflects the community we serve and is a testament to the dedication, hard work and vision of the employees that helped create our history,” said Shannetta Griffin, Executive Director/CEO of BWI Marshall Airport. “For decades, this airport has served a vital role in linking local communities to the globe while fostering economic growth.”

To commemorate the anniversary, BWI Marshall Airport and partners will host a series of events throughout the year to celebrate with the local community along with travelers, staff and other stakeholders, both present and past, that have contributed to the airport’s enduring success. Further details about the airport’s 75th anniversary and events to celebrate the milestone are available on the BWI Marshall Airport website.

On Saturday, June 14 from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., BWI Marshall Airport and the Ann Arrundell County Historical Society are hosting Summer Fest at the Benson-Hammond House, which is the last standing farmhouse on the land that became the airport. The Benson-Hammond House also served as the first office site during the construction of Friendship International Airport. Local residents and families are invited to celebrate the BWI Marshall 75th anniversary with live music, food vendors, crafts and other activities. Individuals may submit airport memories for a time capsule to mark the anniversary.

On June 24, BWI Marshall Airport will recognize the 75th anniversary with passengers. Party celebrations will be held at several airline gates on that date.

Throughout June, BWI Marshall Airport is partnering with the Arts Council of Anne Arundel County and Visit Annapolis and Anne Arundel County to feature live performances from local musicians. The concert series will be presented on the upper level of the airport, near the B security checkpoint.

BWI Marshall Airport is a leading aviation hub serving Maryland and the National Capital Region. The airport served more than 27 million passengers in 2024 and offers approximately 300 daily nonstop departures to about 90 domestic and international destinations. BWI Marshall Airport generates a total economic impact of $11.3 billion. The airport and visitors produce and support more than 107,000 jobs throughout Maryland and the region.

Summer Fest at the Benson-Hammond House: BWI Marshall’s 75th Anniversary

Saturday, June 14th 2025

10:00am – 3:00pm

Benson-Hammond House, 7101 Aviation Blvd, Linthicum Heights, MD 21061

BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport’s 75th Anniversary is approaching on June 24th, but we are starting the party early!

Help us celebrate 75 years of air service at the historic Benson-Hammond House, which is the last standing farmhouse on the land that became our grounds. The Benson-Hammond House also served as the first office site during the construction of what was then known as Friendship International Airport. Join us June 14th for food, music, crafts, historic tours, and family fun—plus a chance to add to our 75th Anniversary time capsule. Open to community members, current and former airport employees, and airport supporters.

Register to attend

BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport Joins the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program

Airport Offers Free Lanyards to Support Individuals with Non-Visible Disabilities

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport today launched its participation in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network, a global initiative that offers support and assistance for travelers with non-visible disabilities. The program aims to enhance accessibility for passengers with unique needs who may require assistance or additional time in their travels.

Starting today, travelers passing through BWI Marshall Airport can obtain a free sunflower lanyard, which offers a discreet way to let airport and airline employees know about a disability, chronic illness, or other condition that may not be immediately apparent. The lanyards are available at information desks throughout the airport terminal. By wearing a sunflower lanyard, passengers may signal that they could need a helping hand, understanding, or some other form of assistance.

“We are working to empower our customers with non-visible disabilities to travel with the assurance that they will receive the understanding and support they may need,” said Shannetta Griffin, Executive Director/CEO of BWI Marshall Airport. “Airport personnel are receiving training to have a thorough understanding of what non-visible disabilities are and how to support our passengers wearing the sunflower lanyard.”

There are hundreds of hidden disabilities. from learning difficulties, chronic, or mental health conditions, to mobility, speech, hearing, or visual impairments. The experiences and daily challenges for those with hidden disabilities are unique to each individual and can significantly impair the normal activities of daily living. These challenges include travel, navigating airports, and the aviation security process.

BWI Marshall Airport joins a growing number of global airports and major transportation services in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. The airport is affirming its commitment to make travel accessible for all. Employees, including airline, security, and concessions personnel will receive specialized training to provide understanding and assistance to those passengers wearing sunflower lanyards.

Maryland Transportation Secretary Wiedefeld Names New Executive Director and CEO of the Maryland Aviation Administration

Shannetta R. Griffin, P.E. Named Leader of BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport

April 4, 2025 – Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld has named Shannetta R. Griffin, P.E. as the Executive Director and CEO of the Maryland Aviation Administration (MAA), overseeing the management, operations and maintenance to ensure the safety of Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) Thurgood Marshall Airport, Martin State Airport and the state’s regional aviation assistance program. She has more than 40 years of experience as a professional engineer within the transportation industry with an emphasis on aviation and aerospace. Executive Director and CEO Griffin begins in her new position on April 7.

“I have full confidence in Shannetta to lead MAA and help grow BWI Marshall Airport, one of Maryland’s most significant economic engines,” said Secretary Wiedefeld. “Her proven leadership and commitment to promoting safety, fostering economic growth and providing premiere customer service ensures BWI Marshall remains one of the top airports in the region.”

Portrait of Shannetta R. Griffin

Prior to joining the Maryland Aviation Administration, Executive Director and CEO Griffin served as Associate Administrator of Airports for the Federal Aviation Administration from 2021 to 2025. In that capacity, she led a team of more than 700 employees nationwide and administered national airport safety and standards, planning, engineering, federal compliance and financial assistance programs to provide complex solutions for more than 3,300 public-use airports across the country.

“I am pleased to join the Maryland Aviation Administration team as the Executive Director and CEO for BWI Marshall Airport and Martin State Airport,” said Executive Director and CEO Griffin. “I am thankful to Governor Moore and Secretary Wiedefeld for the confidence they have entrusted in me to serve the citizens of Maryland and continue the success of the busiest airport in the Washington/Baltimore region. I will build upon relationships with our community and airline partners, and the very capable and dedicated staff to advance the airports as economic gateways to our region and the world.”

Before joining the FAA, Executive Director Griffin served in executive leadership roles for the Indianapolis Airport Authority (IAA) and the Columbus Regional Airport Authority (CRAA). At IAA she was responsible for the management, engineering, planning, construction, environmental and supplier diversity program for multimillion capital and operating budgets for the Indianapolis International Airport and five reliever airports.

As the Chief Commercial Officer at CRAA, Executive Director and CEO Griffin maximized revenue in real estate and land development, air service and cargo development, concession management and parking/ground transportation, increasing concession revenue growth and achieving record breaking passenger growth. Subsequently as the Chief Development Officer, Executive Director and CEO Griffin led the planning and execution of the Authority’s largest capital development program, a $2 billion project consisting of a new passenger terminal, consolidated rental car facility and hotel.

Executive Director and CEO Griffin received her Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Toledo and has earned numerous accolades and awards for her leadership in the engineering and aviation industries and her commitment to the community. She is the proud mother of two children and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

BWI Marshall Airport generates a total economic impact of $11.3 billion. The airport and visitors produce and support more than 107,000 jobs throughout Maryland and the region. The airport offers nearly 300 daily nonstop departures to about 90 domestic and international destinations.

Martin State Airport is a public use airport located about 10 miles northeast of downtown Baltimore. It primarily serves general aviation, including corporate, private, law enforcement and military aircraft, along with flight schools and other aviation-related services. Martin State creates and supports about 2,300 jobs throughout the region. It is a federally designated reliever airport, helping to divert noncommercial air traffic from BWI Marshall Airport.

Board of Public Works Approves New Air Traffic Control Tower for Martin State Airport

$22 Million Project Will Replace Aging Infrastructure with Modern Tower


The Maryland Board of Public Works today approved the construction of a new air traffic control
tower at Martin State Airport in Middle River, Baltimore County. The Board, chaired today by Lt.
Governor Aruna Miller and including Comptroller Brooke Lierman and Treasurer Dereck E. Davis,
approved the $22.2 million construction contract to build the new tower.


“This new, modern air traffic control tower further supports the Moore-Miller Administration’s goals
of leading with safety and making strategic investments to grow the state’s economy,” said Maryland
Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld. “The new tower will be designed to support growth at
Martin State Airport for decades to come by providing greater visibility for air traffic controllers,
increasing its resiliency and providing ADA compliant access for the first time. Thank you to the
Board of Public Works for approving this critical contract.”


The new air traffic control tower is a critical investment in the future of Martin State Airport and will
offer significant advancements for aviation safety and efficiency. The new tower will replace the
existing facility, which has served the airport for more than 80 years. With a new midfield location and
modern design, the new tower will incorporate the latest technology and safety features, providing air
traffic controllers with enhanced visibility and improved communication.


“This new air traffic control tower represents a major investment in the future of Martin State Airport,”
said Ricky Smith, Executive Director/CEO of the Maryland Aviation Administration. “The project will
meet the growing demands of air traffic in our region while maintaining the highest levels of safety
and efficiency.”


The new tower will be strategically located to provide superior visibility of the airport’s runway,
taxiways, and airspace to help controllers effectively manage the flow of aircraft. The facility will
feature modernized equipment and infrastructure to support future advancements in aviation
technology. Built in 1942, the current air traffic control tower at Martin State Airport is among the
oldest in the nation.


Martin State Airport is a public use airport located about 10 miles northeast of downtown Baltimore. It
primarily serves general aviation, including corporate, private, law enforcement and military aircraft,
along with flight schools and other aviation-related services. Martin State creates and supports about
2,300 jobs throughout the region. It is a federally designated reliever airport, helping to divert
noncommercial air traffic from BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport.

Board of Public Works Approves BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport Construction Projects

$41.5 million improvements to enhance travel for domestic and international passengers

Photo of passengers walking near the entrance to Security Checkpoint D/E at BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport

The Maryland Board of Public Works today approved two contracts that will improve and expand a security screening checkpoint and baggage handling systems at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport. The construction projects will enhance the travel experience for passengers and provide important capacity for airline operations. The Board, chaired by Governor Wes Moore and including Comptroller Brooke Lierman and Treasurer Dereck E. Davis, approved $5.5 million to expand the airport’s D/E security checkpoint and $36 million to improve baggage systems in the international terminal.

“As travel continues to grow, we are working to ensure the best airport experience for our passengers while creating more opportunities for our airline partners,” said Ricky Smith, Executive Director/CEO of BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport. “These projects are consistent with our commitment to providing a safe, efficient, and comfortable airport.”

The D/E checkpoint project will add two lanes to the security checkpoint, which serves both domestic and international passengers. This screening checkpoint currently reaches throughput capacity during peak periods. The two additional security lanes will help accommodate increased passenger volume.

The international terminal project will replace existing outbound baggage systems that were installed during the original facility construction over 20 years ago. In addition, the work will expand the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) baggage screening facility and improve existing international baggage claim carousels.

BWI Marshall Airport generates a total economic impact of $11.3 billion. The airport and visitors produce and support more than 107,000 jobs throughout Maryland and the region. The airport offers approximately 300 daily nonstop departures to about 90 domestic and international destinations.

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Fitch Upgrade of BWI Marshall Airport Bond Rating Reflects Airport Strong Market Position

HANOVER, MD (November 6, 2024) – Fitch Ratings has upgraded the Maryland Department of Transportation’s revenue bonds for a major project at Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) Thurgood Marshall Airport to A+ from A with a stable outlook.  The rating upgrade comes in advance of an upcoming bond sale to complete construction of the Concourse A/B Connector and Baggage Handling System at BWI Marshall Airport.  Moody’s Ratings assigned a rate of A1 with a stable outlook to the new issuance and re-affirmed that rating for the existing bonds.   

“The ratings upgrade, coupled with the recent addition of several new transcontinental flights by Southwest Airlines and two straight months of record-breaking passenger traffic, demonstrates the strength of BWI Marshall Airport and its important role in the region,” said Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld. “Our customers, the commitment from the Moore-Miller Administration, and the strength of our partnership with Southwest Airlines are key factors in these achievements.”  

The sale of the revenue bonds is expected this month. Fitch cites both BWI Marshall Airport’s financial profile, supported by the full recovery of passenger traffic, and its strong position in the competitive Baltimore-Washington D.C. market as key drivers of its rating upgrade. The credit ratings agency also noted the strategic importance of BWI Marshall Airport to the Southwest national network.  BWI Marshall Airport is the busiest Southwest station on the East Coast. In 2023, Southwest flew 18.3 million passengers at BWI Marshall. There are more than 5,200 Southwest employees in the local market, according to the airline.  

The upcoming sale of approximately $230 million in airport revenue bonds is an investment in the largest capital project in the airport’s history. The work includes a direct connection between Concourses A and B, a sophisticated baggage handling system, expanded seating areas at passenger gates, new restrooms and added food and retail concession space.  Completion of the new baggage handling and connector system is scheduled for late 2025, with the entire expansion project expected to be completed in 2026.  

“These positive ratings reflect the strong financial position of our airport and our commitment to responsible fiscal management,” said Ricky Smith, Executive Director/CEO of BWI Marshall Airport. “We are well positioned for work to enhance the passenger experience and drive economic growth for the region.” 

Read more about the rating upgrade from Fitch Ratings here and Moody’s rating here. 

BWI Marshall is a key driver of economic activity and transportation for the state of Maryland. As the busiest airport in the National Capital region for passenger traffic, the airport provides nearly 300 daily nonstop departures to about 90 domestic and international destinations and produces a total annual economic impact of $11.3 billion. BWI Marshall and its passengers generate, support and sustain more than 107,000 jobs throughout the region. 

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