Airport approves new economy parking but raises parking rates

CHATTANOOGA (WDEF) – The Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport Authority on Monday approved building a new economy parking lot.

And they are also raising parking rates.

Free roaming shuttles will take you from the economy lot to the terminal.

It will cost $9 a day.

Air passengers generally use economy lots to keep their cars while they are away on trips.

Construction on the new lot begins in January and should be ready to go by the end of March.

As for the rate hikes, the Airport Authority says they will raise them for the first time in more than six years.

They say Chattanooga has some of the cheapest airport parking in the southeast.

So the new short term daily rate will be $20, long term $12 and Economy $9.

“The Chattanooga Airport is exceeding its expected growth month after month due to our expanded routes and record enplanements,” said Terry Hart, president and chief executive officer for the Chattanooga Airport. “Creating an economy lot and adjusting parking rates helps ensure our long term financial stability, while still offering parking at a price well below other airports in our region. Our future plans include building a parking deck, which will provide a crucial service to passengers as we continue to grow.”