Coalition of Chambers Launches New Organization to Support Airport Growth

Members of the NH Commerce Corridor

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he NH Commerce Corridor (NHCC), a coalition of seven Chambers of Commerce from across the Southern and Capital regions of New Hampshire, announced today the formation of a new organization, the Air Service Support and Enhancement Team (ASSET), to support air service development efforts at Manchester Boston Regional Airport.

"Manchester Boston Regional Airport is key economic driver of New Hampshire’s economy. Simply put, more flights and passengers out of MHT means more jobs, business growth, and economic output in New Hampshire. By forming ASSET, our regional business community is taking a new and direct role in partnering with the airport to expand air service options. Flying MHT isn’t just a great travel option, it also helps grow our economy and improve our state’s quality of life."
- Mike Skelton, Former President & CEO, Greater Manchester Chamber

The NH Commerce Corridor (NHCC), a coalition of seven Chambers of Commerce from across the Southern and Capital regions of New Hampshire, formed ASSET after more than a year of discussions and planning with Manchester Boston Regional Airport officials. The NHCC is a unique and new collaboration of seven NH Chambers of Commerce formed during the pandemic.

"Given the challenges facing our business community and state due to the pandemic, collaboration is more important than ever. ASSET represents an innovative, first-of-its kind partnership of seven Chambers of Commerce working together to address a critical issue impacting our economy. ASSET is the first of many potential collaborative projects of the New Hampshire Commerce Corridor."
- Tim Sink, President & CEO, Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce

The primary mission of ASSET is to expand flight options at Manchester Boston Regional Airport. More flight options will lead to greater passenger traffic which in turn produces a host of positive economic benefits for the state.

"Our current challenge is too many New Hampshire based passengers choose to fly out Boston rather than our home state airport. This “leakage” of passengers from NH results in the airport losing out on funds generated by each ticket sale that go back to our airport and local economy. If ASSET can help the airport reduce this passenger leakage out of NH by 50%, New Hampshire would recapture more $70 million in economic output that is currently occurring in other states. Our goal with ASSET is to help NH residents understand that they are making a sound investment for our local economy by consistently flying MHT."
- Donna Morris, Former President & CEO, Greater Salem Chamber of Commerce
ASSET FAQ

What is ASSET?

ASSET stands for “Air Service Support and Enhancement Team” and is a new 501c3 entity formed by the NH Commerce Corridor and business stakeholders. The mission of ASSET is to expand air service options (carriers and flights) at Manchester Boston Regional Airport.

What will ASSET do?

ASSET will collaborate with Manchester Boston Regional Airport by serving as a grant partner for programs such as the Small Community Air Service Development Program. Using grants and other funds, ASSET will seek to offer incentives to potential carriers in the form of marketing support, station start-up costs, or minimum revenue guarantees. ASSET also intends to engage in marketing and promotional efforts highlighting the economic impact of supporting Manchester Boston Regional Airport.

Is ASSET already actively working with the airport?

Yes! Though only recently incorporated formally, ASSET supported the airport’s Small Community Air Service Development Program application which resulted in a successful $450K grant award to support the launch of Spirit Airlines service this fall.

Who is involved in ASSET?

ASSET was formed as a 501c3 nonprofit entity administratively housed under the Greater Manchester Chamber. ASSET will be overseen by a Board of Directors of representatives from the Chambers of the NH Commerce Corridor and key business stakeholders.

How is ASSET funded?

ASSET will generate funding through private corporate donations and potential municipal and economic development funding sources. The initial start up costs and staffing of the organization are being provided by the NH Commerce Corridor.

About the New Hampshire Commerce Corridor

The NH Commerce Corridor (NHCC) is a coalition of Chambers of Commerce representing the Southern and Capital regions of New Hampshire. The NHCC was formed in 2020 to strengthen and enhance the ability of participating Chambers of Commerce to respond to the challenges posed to the business community by the COVID-19 pandemic and foster regional cooperation.

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