The purpose of
Airport Solutions Update
is to keep the public informed about the ongoing efforts to improve air service at Friedman Memorial Airport and to pursue
a replacement airport.
Our goal, as always, is to uphold our commitment to the public to be open, accessible and as transparent as possible.

 

Updates are posted on IFLYSUN.COM
and sent out via email when new information is available.   

 

*NOTE: Items marked with an asterisk have occurred since the last FMAA meeting and will be briefed at the next meeting.  

February 15, 2013

 

  

  

Improvements to Friedman Memorial Airport - The FAA has indicated that FMA has design deficiencies that, if not remedied, could result in the reduction or elimination of some air service.  As such, the FMAA has instructed airport staff to work with the FAA to explore what fixes can be made at the existing airport.   The FAA's Northwest Mountain Regional Office has determined the next steps are to execute a technical analysis of possible alternatives to meet the design standards for the aircraft that use the airport currently (C-II and C-III). A Draft Airport Alternatives Technical Analysis was presented to FMAA in November 2012. 
  

Latest Updates:

  • The FMAA board has approved a scope of work aimed at outlining a plan to bring Friedman Memorial Airport more into compliance with FAA design standards. The scope of work outlines a number of tasks including:
    • An Airport Layout Plan (ALP) update focused on achieving runway safety area compliance by the 2015 federal statutory deadline
    • A phasing plan which will outline strategic timing of the proposed modifications aimed at maximizing construction seasons while minimizing impact to Airport operations
    • A capital improvement plan which will identify how these improvement will be funded
  • The Instrument Procedures Feasibility Study approved at the December 2012 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:

  • 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 February 12 meeting, FMAA did not determine next steps on the EIS or replacement airport process.

Retain/Improve/Develop Air Service

  • Flights during the holiday season were strong with enplanements up 9% from last year
  • Negotiations for summer MRG flights are in progress

 General Updates

  • The next three FMAA meetings have been shifted to accommodate a number of schedule conflicts. The new dates are:
    • Tuesday, March 12, 2013
    • Tuesday, April 9, 2013

Upcoming Opportunities to Learn More

  • Coffee Talk - Q&A with Airport Manager Rick Baird and Communications Director, Candice Pate
    • Tuesday, February 26, 7:30-9AM, Jesse's Country Grille, Bellevue   
  • Airport Tour - see the challenges first hand
    • Wednesday, February 27, 12-2PM. Space is limited, email Cecilia@flyfma.com to reserve your spot.