[Johnny Ryall]

Memphis International Airport Flying High: Named a Gateway Hub to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Best Northwest Hub in 2005.
Memphis International Airport is now a gateway airport. This means certain pre-cleared general aviation operations, including corporate aircraft, charter flights and on-demand operations can fly directly to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) from Memphis.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) only allows general aviation flights in accordance with the DCA Access Standard Security Program into DCA. The program was developed last year. It allows up to 48 general aviation flights into DCA per day and addresses the special aviation security needs in the National Capitol Region by maintaining strict security measures. Each flight requires advance notification, including background checks for all passengers and criminal history checks for crew members. Memphis International Airport is one of just 15 airports nationwide with gateway clearance.

Memphis International Airport also has been named “best Northwest hub in 2005” by Northwest Airlines ground operations as part of the annual recognition the department gives to stations for outstanding performance each year. The assessment of station performance is based on critical measures of safety, operational reliability, customer service and budget.