Alexandria, VA— The year just ending brought considerable improvements and new developments to the airports operated by the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority -- Washington Dulles International and Ronald Reagan Washington National.

"It’s been a significant year for the Washington airports," said James A. Wilding, President/CEO of the Airports Authority, "one that has brought new services, new facilities, and investments in our community."

The Airports Authority notes the following top ten highlights of the past year (in no particular order):

Alexandria, VA— U.S. Airways' low-cost carrier service, MetroJet, began serving Washington Dulles International Airport on December 2 with daily flights to Orlando.

MetroJet provides three daily non-stop flights to Orlando and adds a fourth to that city as well as two new daily non-stop flights to Tampa on December 22. On January 6 next year, MetroJet will expand service to Fort Lauderdale with two daily non-stop flights.

Alexandria, VA— Next time you travel through Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport or meet someone there, take a look at the results of several unique historic preservation projects now on view for travelers and members of the public.

The projects include the site of a former Colonial plantation called Abingdon, which was the home of George Washington's granddaughter and other prominent families in the Washington and Virginia area.

Thanksgiving week, and the holiday season which follows, are expected to bring more travelers to Ronald Reagan Washington National and Washington Dulles International Airports. The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority is offering travel advice to area residents.

"The holiday season brings more crowded conditions to our airports so it may be wise to allow extra time for parking and check-in to ensure a smooth trip," says Airports Authority President/CEO James A. Wilding.

During the holidays, the Airports Authority offers these travel tips: