Economic Development


The role of the CAA is to enable Connecticut to get the highest levels of performance from its five airports. Our work is focused on providing 1st class aviation facilities and services, because by keeping our airports operating at their best we deliver a powerful and positive impact on the state’s economy.

Airports are economic engines that require planning and strategy to succeed. This is why the CAA works closely with the Department of Community and Economic Development (DECD), the MetroHartford Alliance, municipal leaders, and civic organizations.

The CAA’s mission is to provide the strategic guidance necessary to maximize the return on investment to the Bradley International Airport region. Key components of this important economic development strategy include continued collaboration with leaders from several business-oriented organizations based in Connecticut and Western Massachusetts as well as the strong business development team already in place at the CAA. Airports are complex entities which must operate as profitable businesses, support the aviation needs of the communities they serve, and act as regional economic development engines. A great example of the economic development component was the creation of the Bradley Airport Development Zone, which established opportunities for business development, thereby creating jobs. In the future, the host communities to the CAA’s five general aviation airports have the ability to create similar zones via economic development procedures already in place.

To find out more about how your organization can benefit from steady and strong airport economic development, contact the CAA.