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Isobel Brearley, 23, of England,
passes the control tower during
the Naples Airport Runway 5K & 10K

Vintners, Visitors and a VP:

High Season at Naples Airport

by Chris Rozansky, Executive Director,
Naples Airport Authority
igh season in Naples was one for vehicles positioned around the perimeter road, tarmac,
the record books. taxiway and Runway 32. The event raised money to provide
H Full-time and seasonal residents scholarships for local runners and future aviators.
enjoyed beautiful weather and blue skies. Jan. 15
Restaurants, retail stores and attractions Naples City Council appointed two new members to
were, as expected, busy throughout the the Naples Airport Authority’s Board of Commissioners
winter and early spring. Meanwhile, Naples remains – Michelle Arnold and Ralph Alberto – and the board selected Terrence
among the nation’s strongest housing markets for Cavanaugh as chair and John Crees as vice chair for 2026. They join Robert
affluent buyers, as noted by a Naples Area Board of Patten Burns in providing policy direction, strategic oversight and long-term
Realtors’ report showing the median sales price was guidance for Naples Airport, ensuring it continues to serve the region effectively.
$647,500 in February. NABOR also noted significantly more closed sales and Jan. 28
pending sales compared to the prior year. Vice President JD Vance flew into Naples Airport on Air Force Two, drawing
Forbes consistently rates Naples high on its lists, including one pinpointing crowds of supporters to the Observation Deck and roadways near the North
locations with the highest concentration of millionaires per capita in America. Road Terminal. Local media camped out all day to document the VP’s visit to
A recently published Forbes article notes that Naples “has become America’s Naples, where he attended a private fundraising event. Air Force Two was on the
newest trophy-home destination.” U.S. News & World Report also offers top ground for about two hours.
scores to Naples, ranking it among its Best Places to Retire in America and Jan. 29
Best Places to Live in Florida lists. Three jets carrying vintners from California and Italy arrived in succession at
As the 2025-26 season closes, let’s spend a moment recapping highlights at Naples Airport to a water cannon salute and applause. Distinguished guests
Naples Airport. received the red-carpet treatment and enjoyed a brief reception and champagne
Oct. 3 toast before heading to the Naples Winter Wine Festival, which raised more
Following the FAA’s approval of new flight paths designed to enhance safety, than $30 million to support youth charities in Collier County. Many of the 660
increase efficiency and reduce noise, planes began descending at a steeper slope wine lovers, children’s advocates, sociables and philanthropists arrived in town via
(3.5 degrees vs. 3.0 degrees) to reduce noise over neighborhoods near runways. Naples Airport.
Aircraft in holding patterns also began flying at higher altitudes (3,000 feet March 9
vs. 2,100 feet) and over less populated areas, including the Gulf and the After a temporary closure for repairs, Naples Airport reopened its popular
Everglades. Observation Deck following a series of improvements to enhance the visitor
Oct. 28 experience. The seasonal refresh included pressure washing, minor structural
First responders from 19 public service agencies and organizations across repairs and refreshed stain on deck surfaces. Additionally, crews repainted the
Collier County participated in Operation Final Approach, a full-scale interior and exterior of restrooms along with minor landscaping improvements.
emergency training exercise designed to test and improve the Naples Airport Naples Airport is more than just a place for planes to land – it’s a vital
Emergency Plan. The FAA-required exercise was completed without any community asset that serves as a launching point for critical public agencies,
hiccups, providing reassurance that the region’s first responders are prepared including law enforcement, fire protection and emergency medical services. It’s
for any type of emergency. a philanthropic venue for events connected with Cars on Fifth, Naples Winter
Nov. 1 Wine Festival, SWFL Wine & Food Fest, Naples Night Out with Heroes and
More than 500 runners, walkers and aviation enthusiasts packed Runway more.
32 for the third-annual Naples Airport Runway 5K and first-ever 10K race. With summer upon us, it’s time to take a deep breath, enjoy the slower pace and
Participants lined up at sunrise between Naples Airport’s fuel farm and aircraft begin planning for the 2026-27 season – it will be here before we know it!
hangers before zigzagging around private jets, small planes and emergency For more information about Naples Airport, please visit FlyNaples.com.

20 www.LifeInNaples.net