12-17-2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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FAA To Provide Over $90 Million Toward Replacing Port Columbus Runway

COLUMBUS – Today the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced it will provide over $90 million toward the cost of replacing the south runway at Port Columbus International Airport. The replacement of the south runway will enable greater airport capacity by allowing for an increased number of aircraft operations and creating space for a future second terminal.

“While the aviation industry faced a setback in 2009 because of the national recession, activity levels are expected to rebound and continue to grow over time,” said Elaine Roberts, President & CEO of the Columbus Regional Airport Authority. “A proactive capital improvement plan positions the airport to have facilities and infrastructure ready when growth demands. The replacement of the south runway will combine with the new Stelzer Road overpass, a reconfigured International Gateway and a new aircraft crossover taxiway to pave the way for future airport growth. We thank the officials at the FAA for recognizing and investing in a vital asset for the Central Ohio community.”

The pre-design estimate for the south runway replacement project is $160 million, which includes the construction of the runway 702 feet south of its current location and several related projects. Those projects include modifications to the Airport Golf Course, demolition of airport structures, purchasing and installing aircraft navigation aids, converting the existing runway to a taxiway and much more. The total cost of the project will be adjusted as final design is completed and construction bids are received. The FAA has committed to provide $90,495,000 in funding with remaining costs to be paid from Passenger Facility Charges.

The current south runway is a patchwork of asphalt and concrete, including original 1928 pavement in some areas. The runway has been extended and repaved over the years and will be converted to a taxiway. Design work will continue through much of 2010 with earth and utility work to start in the spring of 2011 and paving and electrical work to get underway later that year. The new runway, which will be far enough from the north runway to allow simultaneous arrivals and departures, is expected to open spring 2013.

Port Columbus is served by 10 air carriers which include Air Canada Jazz, AirTran, American, Continental, Delta, Midwest Connect, Northwest, Southwest, United, US Airways and the regional affiliates associated with many of these major airlines. Over six million passengers are expected to use Port Columbus in 2009, with growth predicted as the economy rebounds. The current terminal, which was built in 1958, is expected to comfortably handle about 10 million passengers annually. A second terminal will be built roughly where the Blue Shuttle Lot is currently located when passenger demand warrants.

For additional information, visit www.FlyColumbus.com or contact Angie Tabor, Manager of Communications, at (614) 239-4081.

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