SBCC Leadership Series Highlights Gulf Shores International Airport

FOLEY, AL – September 16, 2025 – The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce hosted its latest Leadership Series luncheon at the Foley Civic Center, featuring an engaging presentation by Jesse Fosnaugh, A.A.E, ACE, MBA, Airport Director for Gulf Shores International Airport (GUF). The event, presented by Vulcan Inc. and catered by Down South BBQ, drew a strong crowd of business leaders, students, and community members eager to learn about the airport’s progress and regional impact.

Mr. Fosnaugh delivered a comprehensive “Director’s Update” on Gulf Shores International Airport, emphasizing its role as “The Gateway to Coastal Alabama.” He highlighted major milestones since the airport’s opening on May 21, 2025, including the inaugural Allegiant flights and the opening of LuLu’s Grab & Go. He also announced upcoming key dates for inaugural flights to Des Moines, IA (DSM); Appleton, WI (ATW); and Nashville, TN (BNA), reflecting the airport’s growing connectivity to new markets.

Attendees gained valuable insights into GUF’s record-breaking Summer 2025 performance, which welcomed 41.5k+ passengers, processed 650+ rental car reservations, maintained an impressive average load factor of 70.3%, and created 65 new jobs. Mr. Fosnaugh also outlined plans for future expansion to accommodate increasing passenger traffic, and the airport’s ongoing role as a regional economic driver, creating more jobs and boosting tourism across Baldwin County.

As part of a new Chamber initiative to spotlight community impact, the luncheon also featured Shorty’s Safe Haven and the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, two nonprofit Chamber members invited to share their missions with attendees.

Students from South Baldwin Christian Academy, Snook Christian Academy, and Foley High School were also in attendance, gaining firsthand exposure to leadership and economic development in their community. The Chamber extends its appreciation to Educational Enrichment sponsor, Warren Averett, for supporting student participation in this program.

The Leadership Series continues to serve as a vital platform for business leaders, nonprofits, educators, and students to exchange ideas and learn about key developments shaping our region.

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