Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) — North Concourse

Chrysalis delivered full operational readiness, activation, and transition (ORAT) services for the first phase of Asheville Regional Airport’s (AVL) transformative terminal expansion under the AVL Forward program — the largest infrastructure upgrade in the airport’s history. This multi-year capital initiative delivered a modernized ticket lobby, expanded TSA security checkpoint, enhanced passenger amenities, and a brand-new North Concourse. From the outset, Chrysalis led coordinated engagement with airlines, TSA, FAA, tenants, ground handlers, fuelers, and guest services to align expectations, define operational requirements, and ensure full readiness for opening. We developed and executed a comprehensive readiness strategy that included stakeholder mapping, coordinated communications, operational trials, and phased activation schedules tailored to AVL’s active-construction environment. The Chrysalis team oversaw tenant onboarding and training, validated wayfinding, and coordinated complex tenant relocations. Chrysalis designed and facilitated scenario-based tabletop exercises and live operational trials, testing boarding bridge operations, baggage handling processes, passenger flow, and contingency procedures. Late-stage challenges — including incomplete infrastructure, delayed procurement of critical equipment, and ADA compliance gaps — required adaptive, on-the-ground problem-solving. Chrysalis mitigated risks, protected the schedule, and maintained operational integrity throughout. Lessons learned reinforced the value of full-system testing, proactive procurement, and early planning for common-use infrastructure. AVL’s new facilities opened safely, on time, and fully operational, immediately improving capacity, passenger experience, and resilience. The activation not only delivered a compliant, ready-to-use facility from day one but also positioned AVL for continued phased expansion with minimal operational disruption.