EAA makes great impact on GRB operations

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – August 5, 2024

(GREEN BAY, WI) The end of July saw a variety of planes and helicopters take to the skies to showcase the wonderful world of aviation at the 2024 EAA AirVenture. Though the event took place in Oshkosh, WI, it had a major impact on Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB). The 2024 EAA event saw a record number of attendance with over 686,000 people from all over the world.

“Many who visit EAA, book hotel rooms and visit other cities during the week, and Green Bay was one of them,” said Marty Piette, A.A.E, Airport Director. “At GRB we saw a 20% increase in volume at our terminals, with travelers coming from all over, including New Zealand and Australia.” International travelers who booked commercial flights through GRB also stayed at local hotels, dined at Green Bay restaurants and shopped at local businesses.

EAA also had a positive impact on GRB’s fixed-based operators (FBO) or businesses that provide aviation services like parking and fueling at airports. “We have two FBOs that both saw increases in activity,” noted Piette. “Jet Air Group saw a 44.5% increase from 2023 and Executive Air had an 8.6% increase over the previous year.” The FBO’s allowed for private planes to have service options outside of the EAA grounds.

While travelers were making their way through our local airport, GRB was making sure visitors at EAA knew all about Green Bay by hosting a booth at the event. “Our booth was visited by many international travelers from counties such as Israel, Estonia and Canada. It was a great way for visitors to learn about Northeast Wisconsin landmarks, attractions and more.” GRB’s booth partnered with Discover Green Bay, Green Bay Packers and PMI Entertainment Group to offer great take-aways such as GRB branded hair clips, 2025 NFL Draft swag and delicious Beernsten’s Confectionary hand-crafted Whiskey Old Fashioned lollipops.

“Promoting Northeast Wisconsin takes a collaborative effort,” said Troy Streckenbach, Brown County Executive. “It’s a privilege to have so many of our regional partners join forces to showcase our amazing quality of life and attractions in our community. It not only boosts our economy but highlights why our area is a great place to live, work and play.”

“GRB would like to give a special thanks to all employees for their hard work prior to and during EAA. We received a lot of praise from travelers who experienced remarkable customer service. Setting the stage for a great time in Green Bay is what they do best,” noted Piette. “We would also like to thank Discover Green Bay, the Green Bay Packers, Destination Door County, PMI Entertainment Group and the Oneida Hotel for their efforts to promote Green Bay.”