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New Bern, N.C. (April 30, 2025) – As spring and summer travel ramp up, Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN) is urging travelers to think beyond booking flights — and make sure their identification won’t keep them grounded.
Starting May 7, 2025, the federal government will require all travelers to present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or an acceptable alternative to board a commercial flight.
REAL ID-compliant cards are marked with a star at the top and are issued by your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
According to TSA, passengers can also fly with a valid U.S. Passport, U.S. Passport Card, or a State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License. A full list of approved alternatives can be found here: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification
“If you're planning to fly this spring or beyond, now is the time to check your ID,” said Andrew Shorter, Airport Director. “We don’t want anyone to be caught off guard at the checkpoint when this new rule takes effect.”
The timing coincides with a surge in passenger traffic at EWN, fueled by expanded air service, terminal upgrades, and growing demand for convenient, regional travel.
“This spring, we’re seeing an incredible uptick in travel from EWN,” said Shorter. “Passengers are taking full advantage of the improvements we’ve made and the expanded options available.”
Several key factors are contributing to the increase in traffic at EWN:
- Breeze Airways continues to see strong demand for its nonstop flights to Orlando, Florida and Hartford, Connecticut, as the airline nears its one-year anniversary serving the Historic New Bern area in May.
- American Airlines has enhanced its service with a dual-class aircraft, offering more capacity and a more comfortable flying experience.
- EWN has earned a growing reputation as a passenger-friendly regional airport, offering easy access, no wait times, and effortless parking in front of the terminal.
- Eastern North Carolina is experiencing a rise in relocation and retirement, fueling even greater demand for accessible, reliable air travel close to home.
- Coastal Carolina Regional Airport has completed a major terminal expansion, enhancing the travel experience with dedicated passenger boarding bridges, a larger security checkpoint, new seating and restroom areas, improved parking access, and a designated service animal relief area.
“We couldn’t have achieved these improvements without the commitment of our many partners — from local officials to construction teams and airline partners,” Shorter added. “Their support has helped make EWN a best-in-class regional airport.”
As Breeze Airways plans for a second year offering service at Coastal Carolina Regional Airport, Shorter said he looks forward to what’s ahead for the partnership.
“We’ve had a phenomenal first year with Breeze Airways,” Shorter said. “The response has been outstanding, and it shows the strong community support and demand for new travel options from our region. Breeze’s presence has opened the skies for more people in Eastern North Carolina.”
Local tourism officials are also anticipating a busy season.
“Travelers are discovering just how much the New Bern area has to offer in spring and summer—from waterfront adventures and historic charm to a calendar full of festivals and events,” said Melissa Riggle, Executive Director of the Craven County Tourism Development Authority. “Thanks to EWN, getting here has never been easier.”
Travelers are encouraged to book early for the best flight availability and fares and to verify their REAL ID status before the May 7, 2025 enforcement date.
For more information on REAL ID visit https://www.dhs.gov/real-id.
For more information about Coastal Carolina Regional Airport, visit www.flyewn.com.
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