The approval of the final Environmental Assessment for the Flagstaff Airport runway extension by the FAA on July 14th seemed to pave the way, but complete funding was problematic.

It was announced at the last Airport Commission meeting, on September 14th, that $10 million has been earmarked by the FAA for the runway extension project. This grant plus an additional $2.5 million in FAA discretionary funds plus $2.5 million in ADOT funding meets the $15 million engineering estimate for the project.

The runway will be extended from 6,999 feet to 8,800 feet. The extension will increase safety, permit take offs by heavier laden private jets, and allow regional jet airliners to be scheduled in Flagstaff. While the current runway can accommodate many full-sized airliners, the smaller regional jets require longer runways. This is due to various special characteristics that make these aircraft more efficient and quieter in operation.

Three construction firms are currently competing for this “construction manager at risk” project. The selected firm will provided a guaranteed price and will participate in the design process.

A closure of 1,000 feet of runway for approximately 3 months will be required as a construction safety area. One possible schedule for this closure might be during summer of 2007. Construction access will be from Lake Mary Rd. near the intersection with Powell.

For additional information, see: Arizona Daily Sun

Other Airport News

Security – New cipher locks are to be added to two gates that access the tarmac in the aircraft storage area.

Wash Rack – A new airplane wash rack is under construction that meets storm water filtering requirements. There will be no fee for use but a hose is required.

November B-17 Visit – The EAA’s fully restored B-17G, “Aluminum Overcast”, will be in Flagstaff on Nov. 14-15. Flight experiences and ground tours will be available. Click here to book flights and for more information.