ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — Asheville Regional Airport has resumed commercial air travel since Tuesday, September 30. We spoke with Asheville Regional Airport spokesperson Tina Kinsey to get the latest on flights, parking and other information.

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Flights

Some flights through the airport to and from Asheville have resumed, but this does not apply to all scheduled flights.

The airport does not publish flight status on its website because it is unable to update it in the event of internet problems.

According to Kinsey, the best way for travelers to check flight status is with their respective airline.

“It is really important for passengers to contact their respective airlines and check their respective flight status before coming to the airport. And the best way to do that is online or call if you can, and if you have your airline’s app, that’s one.” “A great opportunity to find out flight status in real time,” Kinsey said.

Relief supplies flown in

Relief supplies are flown to the airport by FEMA, but the airport is not a distribution site.

Airport officials are asking people not to come to the airport to get the supplies and instead go to a distribution site.

Information about sales locations can be found here Here.

“We are a lifeline for getting a lot of this into the community. And we are so proud of that. Our team has been working around the clock to keep this airport operational so we can truly support the region in this way,” Kinsey said. “These supplies are trucked to where they are needed.”

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AVL regional communication

“It was incredibly difficult. We are no different than any other person or company…communication has been difficult,” Kinsey said.

The airport phone messaging system has not been updated because airport phone lines are down, but staff posted updates on the airport’s Facebook page.

They’re asking people to share updates to spread the word to others who may have travel plans through AVL. They were able to post a frequently asked questions page on their website that can be accessed Here.

Park

On Tuesday morning, many car parks were full or almost full. If possible, it’s best to try to get a ride to the airport and be dropped off there.

Airport officials have also reminded travelers that Ubers, Lyfts and taxi services are also struggling with fuel shortages.

Kinsey said the car lots were not flooded and no cars were damaged.

Rental car

AVL’s FAQ page states: “Car rental is still difficult due to internet problems in the area. If you have pre-booked a premium product through a car rental company’s app, you may be able to pick up your car at the airport.” Check with your car rental provider.

“Rental car returns can still be made at the airport.”

Airport staff

Airport staff have been working around the clock to keep the airport open and incoming flights operational.

“We have a great team here at the airport. Some of them haven’t even seen their families or the damage to their own homes. The team at the airport and the partners here are trying to get people where they need to go.” “It’s incredible. We are incredibly proud of the Asheville airport team,” said Kinsey.