ALLENTOWN, PA – November 2, 2026 − State Senator Nick Miller announced today that he has secured $250,000 in state funding, along with an additional $50,000 commitment from the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, to help Lehigh Valley International Airport compete for new nonstop passenger service to Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, other Caribbean destinations, and Canada.
The investment will support ABE’s air service development efforts and help airport officials engage with airlines interested in establishing routes to potential markets, including San Juan, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and other destinations throughout the Caribbean and Canada, depending on passenger demand and airline interest. In addition, Lehigh Valley residents will have more affordable and convenient travel options closer to home, saving both time and money by reducing the need to drive to larger airports, such as Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey. It would also increase accessibility for the region’s Puerto Rican community and others with family and cultural ties to the island, making it easier and potentially more affordable to visit loved ones.
“Lehigh Valley International Airport is experiencing tremendous growth, and now is the time to build on that momentum by competing for new nonstop routes,” said Senator Nick Miller. “With this $300,000 investment, we are helping ABE compete for new routes, attract airline service, and give residents more options to fly directly from home instead of traveling to Philadelphia or Newark. This public-private partnership is an important step toward strengthening our airport and supporting the continued growth of our regional economy.
ABE currently partners with Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines to provide nonstop service to an expanding network of business and leisure destinations across the country. The Airport was recently ranked among the Best Small Airports in the United States for two consecutive years.
“Several of the suggested routes were previously served from ABE and the Airport maintains a consistent dialogue with airlines regarding the restoration of this nonstop service,” said Thomas R. Stoudt, Executive Director, Lehigh-Northampton Airport Authority. “Dynamic growth and diversity across the Lehigh Valley has elevated the need for more direct service. We appreciate the support of Senator Miller as we continue to these air service development efforts.”
“The Chamber is very happy to partner with Senator Miller to provide support for potential air service to the Caribbean region from the Lehigh Valley,” said Tony Iannelli
President & CEO, Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce. “Given our growing population, particularly in the Hispanic community, this service will provide much-needed transportation for residents and additional resources for our expanding Lehigh Valley International Airport.”
Miller said this nonstop service to these targeted destinations would give Lehigh Valley residents more convenient access while strengthening the airport’s role as a regional economic engine.
“This is about positioning ABE for its next phase of growth,” Miller said. “The Lehigh Valley is one of the fastest-growing regions in Pennsylvania, and our transportation infrastructure needs to grow with it. The goal is simple: make it easier for people to travel directly from ABE, strengthen connections for our businesses, support tourism and help keep more travelers and economic activity right here in the Lehigh Valley.”
The $300,000 will allow airport officials to pursue markets and airline partnerships that offer the strongest opportunity for sustainable service.
The announcement builds on Miller’s efforts to secure major state investments in the Lehigh Valley’s transportation infrastructure and economic development.
Miller announced more than $5.7 million in RACP funding for transformational projects across the region, including $2.75 million for Lehigh Valley International Airport to support construction of a five-level parking garage with approximately 1,000 spaces, ADA improvements, elevators, electric vehicle chargers and enhanced safety systems.
For more information on investments secured by Senator Miller, visit PASenatorMiller.com.
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