On-Call Aviation Planning Services, Delaware River & Bay Authority

The Delaware River & Bay Authority (DRBA) operates five airports: three within the state of Delaware and two in the southernmost counties of New Jersey that border the Delaware River and Delaware Bay. The DRBA has been at the forefront of connecting people and communities vital to the quality of life and business in the Northeast Corridor since its creation in 1963, maximizing economic opportunities and impacts.  

Separated by the Delaware Bay and Delaware River, access to and from the Northeast Corridor for people and businesses in Delaware and southern New Jersey can be challenging. The DRBA plays a critical role in providing essential transportation, including services to these airports, as well as additional infrastructure such as bridges and ferry services.  

Aviation & airports: Key infrastructure connecting Delaware and Southern New Jersey

Wilmington Airport (ILG) has experienced fluctuating levels of air carrier service since 2007. Between mid-2022 and late 2023, ILG had no scheduled air service, leaving Delaware without direct commercial flights. During this period, residents relied on nearby airports, such as Philadelphia International and Baltimore/Washington International, for access to scheduled passenger service. For those living in southern Delaware, this often meant drives of over two hours to catch a flight. 

Avelo Airlines began scheduled air service at Wilmington/ILG in February 2023, where ILG has enjoyed unprecedented growth. Now in its third year of service, Avelo Airlines and the DRBA have developed a strong and growing relationship, and ILG is poised to continue growing in passenger activity.   

Wilmington Airport has seen passenger numbers soar past half a million, signaling an incredible trajectory of growth. To sustain this progress and maximize their impact on regional economic development, the Delaware River and Bay Authority turned to RS&H for expertise in navigating their evolving needs. Through a multi-year partnership, RS&H is providing innovative solutions to modernize infrastructure, enhance operational efficiency, and position ILG as a key driver of connectivity and commerce. 

RS&H’s approach addresses challenges and opportunities across all facets of airport planning and operations, from forecasting passenger growth and optimizing terminal functionality to streamlining parking, airfield layouts, and air service agreements. Environmental planning and performance monitoring ensure these improvements are sustainable, while updated master plans reflect DRBA’s ongoing vision for the future. 

Beyond ILG, RS&H supports DRBA’s wider network, including Delaware Airpark, the Civil Air Terminal at Dover Air Force Base, and other regional airports. This collaboration ensures that DRBA’s nearly $75 million in capital investments through 2029 deliver lasting benefits to travelers, businesses, and the community. 

Together, RS&H and DRBA are transforming regional aviation, creating a stronger foundation for economic growth and seamless travel experiences across Delaware and beyond.