Augusta Regional Airport expects more for Masters

March 26, 2010

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Mar. 25--Augusta Regional Airport officials are expecting at least 1,200 flights to come through the facility during Masters Week.

Air traffic to the area should be heavier this year than last because of a slightly better economy and the re-emergence of Tiger Woods into the competitive golf world after a self-imposed hiatus to address marital infidelities, said Tim Weegar, director of operations for the airport.

The airport usually averages between 2,200 and 2,300 flights a month, said Diane Johnston, director of marketing for the airport.

Weegar told members of the Augusta Aviation Commission today that at least 50 extra temporary employees will be on hand to help deal with the overflow. Those include additional employees for refueling, customer service personnel and more transportation team members.

"It's pretty intense," Weegar said. "We'll get through it and have a safe Masters."