Flight Fiber Internet Through Quantum Telecommunications Expands to Manchester
Antietam Broadband has expanded its high-speed internet service, Flight Fiber, into the town of Manchester. The move is part of a $32 million private investment aimed at improving internet access in Carroll County.
Flight Fiber is a 100 percent fiber-optic service designed to deliver fast and reliable internet to homes and businesses. According to a statement from Antietam Broadband, the company chose Manchester because of the community’s increasing use of digital tools and growing demand for high-speed connectivity.
“It was important to us to bring Flight Fiber to Manchester,” said Chris Shipman, president and general manager of Antietam Broadband. “This community is embracing technology at an incredible pace, and we know ultra-fast, reliable internet is a must-have.”
Shipman added that Antietam plans to expand the service to more areas across Carroll County.
Manchester has a population of just over 5,400 residents, based on the 2020 U.S. census, reflecting a 12.5 percent increase since 2010.
Mayor Melinda Smith welcomed the development. “More of our residents are working remotely, launching businesses, and embracing digital learning more than ever before,” she said. “Reliable, high-speed internet isn’t just a convenience, it’s the backbone of our success.”
In addition to Antietam’s efforts, Carroll County is also working with other providers to expand internet access. In 2024, the county commissioners approved a contract with Quantum Telecommunications for nearly 6.9 million dollars to build broadband infrastructure in rural areas. The funding comes from Maryland’s Network Infrastructure Grant Program.
Quantum’s project will bring broadband to more than 1,200 homes across Taneytown, New Windsor, and Union Bridge. That work is expected to wrap up this summer.