Latest Updates:

• The FAA and Airport Staff have established talking points that identify next steps regarding the Airport Solutions efforts. Here is an overview of proposed next steps, based upon the Technical Analysis and other factors, outlined in the Talking Points:
  • Update the airport layout plan (ALP) to reflect changes necessary to cure some runway safety area deficiencies by the 2015 federal statutory deadline;
  • Pursue modifications of standards (MOS) for other deficiencies, assuming a maximum take-off weight of 95,000 pounds and a maximum wingspan of 100 feet;
  • Pursue Alternative 6 as the preferred alternative in the Technical Analysis report and pursue elements of Alternative 7 in the planning process in due time;
  • Pursue NextGen technology to improve reliability and safety at the airport, including RNAV.
• At the January 9 meeting, FMAA directed airport Staff and engineers to draft a scope of work for a so-called formulation to give shape to the redesign and construction projects that will yield Runway Safety Area (RSA) compliance. The formulation project will include a phasing and a funding plan for these projects. It will also include an ALP update, the first step in implementing the steps outlined in the Talking Points. A draft formulation is expected at the February FMAA meeting.
• The Instrument Procedures Feasibility Study approved at last month's FMAA meeting is underway and the report is expected late March.

Pursuit of a replacement airport - A replacement airport is likely the best long-term solution for air service to this community.  Critical components in the replacement airport process would include locating a feasible site, building community support, identifying and developing funding sources and evaluating operational feasibility.

 Latest Updates:

• Issues and next steps identified in the Talking Points that concern a replacement airport are:
  • FAA rules require significant progress be initiated within three years of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) Final Decision, or the determination expires. Because FMAA now considers a replacement airport a long-term solution, termination of the EIS at this time may be warranted. FMAA intends to consider this major decision at a future FMAA meeting.
  • If the EIS is terminated, FMAA would move forward with a siting study to identify a suitable site for a replacement airport, using technical information gathered in the EIS and other previous studies wherever possible. The FAA would assist with this study.
  • At the January 9 meeting, FMAA did not determine next steps on the EIS or replacement airport process.

Retain/Improve/Develop Air Service

• MRGs for flights this winter were successfully negotiated. These flights were largely full over the holidays and future bookings look promising
• Discussions with carriers about additional direct flights are ongoing.
• "Ski for Air Service Day": January 27, $40 lift tickets on sale starting January 16, 2013.

 General Updates

• The next three FMAA meetings have been shifted to accommodate a number of schedule conflicts. The new dates are:
• Tuesday, February 12, 2013
• Tuesday, March 12, 2013
• Tuesday, April 9, 2013
• The Friedman Memorial Airport website (www.flyfma.com) and the previous replacement airport website (www.flysvra.com) have been merged into a new site: www.iflysun.com. This new site is your resource on all information regarding air service to the Wood River Valley.

• Coffee Talk - Q&A with Airport Manager Rick Baird and Communications Director, Candice Pate
• Monday, January 28, 7:30-9AM, The Konditerei, Sun Valley
• Airport Tour - see the challenges first hand
• Tuesday, January 29, 12-2PM. Space is limited, email Cecilia@flyfma.com to reserve your spot.