Discussing standards

One of the first items discussed during the Airport Board meeting on February 12 was the financial report. In 2019, the airport saw a total of 460 “movements” and $37,150 in landing fees. So far, this January is up from last year seeing 21 jets, 3 turbo props and $1,725 in landing fees.

A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) 9 Circular was received with criteria for runway conditions and reporting. If a runway has more than 1/4 inch of ice and snow the FAA will close it until the report is upgraded. Employees are being asked to take a webinar so that they will be properly trained in assessing runway conditions and reporting them to the FAA. According to one board member, there haven’t been any flight issues due to runway conditions in January. However, December did have a few delays.

NetJets, the worlds largest private jet company, has criteria higher than the FAAs and they do fly into Shivley Field. NetJets has been encouraged to have their pilots call for the conditions on the ground to eliminate any miscommunication about runway conditions.

The WASIP was also discussed at some length. However, no decisions on what to include in the request for Federal Funding was reached. Another meeting was scheduled to finalize the WASIP. Board members were asked to make a list of improvements they would like to see happen in the next 10 years.

A concern was raised that there is currently no cross wind runway. In the past, there was such a runway at Shively Field but, according to the FAA, the weather data shows no need for one. Pilots still feel that there is a need. The Airport Board is going to find out if new research can be completed to show the necessity for the cross wind runway.

Finally, the pros and cons were discussed regarding the three proposals for the redesign of runway aprons but no decisions were made.

A special Airport Board meeting will take place at 3:30 p.m.on February 25.