About this episode
Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) stands out because it understands its role as more than a transportation hub and more like an active member of the Western North Carolina community it serves. AVL is intentionally doing the work to ensure that its customers are, quite literally, served by their neighbors. The team at AVL operates as a community within a community, grounded in shared purpose, mutual respect, and a deep understanding of place. This commitment shows up in how service is delivered: thoughtful, steady, and human. It’s customer service is designed to reflect local values while meeting the real operational demands of a growing airport.From a business perspective, this approach matters. By investing in its people and cultivating a culture of internal care, AVL creates sustainable service that holds up under pressure, builds trust with travelers and partners, and supports long-term growth. This is not accidental. It’s strategic. AVL demonstrates how purpose-driven leadership, community alignment, and operational excellence can reinforce one another. It’s why this airport deserves attention, not just admiration. AVL offers a model worth studying for anyone interested in the future of customer service, workforce sustainability, and how infrastructure can truly serve the people who call a place home.Thanks for listening to Speaking of Travel! Visit speakingoftravel.net for travel tips, travel stories, and ways you can become a more savvy traveler.