LWCC Policyholder Stories

Chennault International Airport: Safety’s Top Gun

Chennault International Airport is a prominent hub for civilian and military aviation, an industry leader with an unwavering commitment to safety, and an economic powerhouse, fostering growth and prosperity in the surrounding community.

Watch the videoGet to knowDiscover the impact

Loyal to all-encompassing safety.

Chennault International Airport places safety at the very core of its operations and expects the same level of commitment from their tenants and contractors, making them an LWCC Safest 70 Award recipient.

Loyal to aerospace excellence.

Chennault has stood as a touchstone of aerospace excellence since 1986, boasting a two-mile runway and a host of cutting-edge facilities.

Loyal to community.

Chennault is a corporation that prides itself not only on the work it does, but also on bettering the place it does it in. And at the very heart of it all is an overwhelming desire and sense of responsibility to keep those people safe.

Play Video
GET TO KNOW

Chennault International Airport

Chennault International Airport not only serves as a beacon of safety and economic vitality in Lake Charles, Louisiana, but also as a leader in the aviation industry nationwide. Demonstrating remarkable resilience in the face of adversity, particularly during times of disaster in their home community, Chennault has emerged as a paragon of safety excellence and dedication.

Visit Chennault's Website

Leader in the Aerospace Industry

Situated in Lake Charles along the Interstate 10 corridor, Chennault International Airport stands as a prominent hub for aerospace activities. Boasting a two-mile runway and comprehensive infrastructure, it has catered to both civilian and military aircraft requirements for over three decades. The airport serves as a prime location for top-notch aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul operations, as well as manufacturing, general aviation services, and various other enterprises.

Powerful Economic Force

Chennault International Airport serves as a vital economic driver in Southwest Louisiana, boasting a substantial annual economic impact of $410 million and employing 1,000 people through tenant partners like Northrop Grumman, LandLocked Aviation Services, and Citadel Completions. With over 3,000 monthly operations, including takeoffs and landings, the airport remains bustling with activity. Ongoing capital improvement projects, totaling over $32 million over five years, contributed to its recognition as the 2017 Airport of the Year, highlighted by the complete rehabilitation of its main runway and taxiway. Looking ahead, Chennault is focused on expanding its footprint and anticipates continued growth and success as a key industrial hub in the region.

Safety Superstar

From the moment one sets foot on the premises, it becomes abundantly clear that Chennault International Airport places safety at the very core of its operations and expects the same level of commitment from their tenants and contractors. The airport begins each week with a devoted safety meeting and training session, ensuring that every employee is well-prepared for their daily tasks and goals for the week ahead. On top of that, they conduct annual  and special onsite trainings on topics ranging from the very complex all the way down to how to work safely around airplanes. They utilize a mix of resources, including LWCC and OSHA training tools, while also drawing on their own expansive safety experiences that are unique to performing work at a busy airport. What truly sets Chennault apart, however, is their unique extension of safety to every aspect of their employees' lives, fostering a culture where safety isn’t simply a buzzword, it’s second nature.

Model of Resilience

Over the years, Chennault has weathered significant challenges with resolute determination. Major adversities that have tested their mettle include two powerful hurricanes and an ice storm. Fueled by teamwork and their unwavering focus on safety, Chennault's employees have never wavered in completing their jobs in a safe manner, a feat in which LWCC is proud to play a major role.

A lasting impact on Louisiana

Its strategic location, coupled with its diverse range of aviation services and tenant partners, positions Chennault as a vital hub driving prosperity and opportunity throughout Southwest Louisiana and beyond.

$40M annual impact

Chennault has an annual economic impact of $40 million.

1,000+ jobs

Together with their tenant partners, Chennault employs over 1,000 people.

3,000 monthly operations

From takeoffs to landings and everything in between, Chennault conducts roughly 3,000 operations each month.

“Chennault is a hidden jewel both economically and locally. Our primary focus is on safety and teamwork as we work diligently to grow airport operations and grow jobs for our community and region. Our safety culture also permeates throughout our various tenants across the airport.”

Kevin Melton

Executive Director, Chennault International Airport

Getting involved with Louisiana Loyal.

Louisiana Loyal means everything to LWCC, and it includes you. Get involved today by submitting a nomination for the Louisiana Loyal Story Series.

Know who is working to elevate Louisiana, like

Chennault International Airport

?

Celebrating Louisiana through its success stories.

Louisiana has an abundance of individuals and businesses going above and beyond to ensure our best days are ahead. We're committed to telling their stories.