Take a peek at AVL's new air traffic control tower

CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT AWARDED

New Air Traffic Control Tower coming to AVL

To locals in western North Carolina, the Air Traffic Control Tower (ATC) at AVL is iconic. The tower, part of the airport terminal building, sits center stage. It has been in use for 61+ years, and is one of the oldest operating towers in the U.S.

At their November meeting, the Greater Asheville Regional Airport Authority Board approved a construction contract to build a new ATC. The contract was awarded to Kokolakis Contracting for an estimated cost of $44 million. Kokolakis Contracting is a 50-year-old company with extensive experience in ATC construction, including construction of towers in Southwest Florida, Tampa, Ft. Lauderdale, New Orleans and Long Island.

The new ATC at AVL is needed for several important reasons. First, the tower and its associated facilities have exceeded their useful life. Of note, the existing tower was built in 1961, and lacks the height to meet more current line-of-sight standards for air traffic controllers. Second, a new tower must be constructed so the existing tower can be demolished to make room for airport expansion.

“For several years, we have been working with the Federal Aviation Administration and Pond, our architectural firm, to design a new tower,” said Lew Bleiweis, A.A.E., President and CEO. “It is exciting to take this step and award a construction contract. We will break ground in early 2023.”

The new ATC will be a free-standing tower and FAA office building located near the southwest area of the airport’s property, across the airfield from the airport terminal building. The airport expects to begin construction in early 2023.

The project will be funded with airport funds and a $15 million grant awarded this year through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

NEW HOTEL + CONFERENCE CENTER PLANS UNVEILED

Airport land development moving forward

When the airport purchased nearby Broadmoor Golf Links in 2020, the reasons for the purchase were twofold: (1) secure ownership of land surrounding the Runway Protection Zone (located within the golf course), thus ensuring compatible land use in perpetuity; and (2) diversify nonaeronautical revenue to the airport through appropriate land development opportunities.

A significant land development plan for a hotel and conference center is moving forward.

At the airport’s recent board meeting, DreamCatcher Hotels unveiled their site plans for a new upscale hotel with 12,000 square feet of meeting space that will be located at the airport’s Broadmoor Golf Links property. Construction on the hotel will break ground in the spring.

READ ASHEVILLE CITIZEN-TIMES ARTICLE>

TACKLING THE PILOT SHORTAGE IN WNC

AVL contributes to local aviation education

During the summer of 2020, western North Carolina local Tim McBride found himself in a life-changing situation. His personal training business in Hendersonville struggled during the pandemic and he had to make the difficult decision to close its doors. But with a resilient mindset, McBride looked forward to the future and the possibilities it held. Conversations with friends working at Delta Air Lines led him down a path that he had never expected: he would pursue a career as a commercial airline pilot. And a unique part of his story is that it is a local one, filled with perseverance, generosity of others and support from a vibrant local aviation education network.

HOLIDAY TRAVEL TIPS

Make your list, check it twice!

Thanksgiving week was a record travel week this year, and the upcoming December holidays are sure to be packed full, as well. It’s important to be a savvy traveler so your experience is as positive as possible. There are a number of things that are well within your control that can contribute to peace and good cheer. Here’s our recommended list:

1. Fly on the actual holiday! Did you know that flying on major holidays can often be one of the least busy days for air travel? If you can swing it, book an early flight out, and you can be at the dinner table stuffed with stuffing at dinner time.

2. Watch the weather! Did you know that ahead of major winter events or storms, airlines may offer flexible options to make changes to your flight plans? Usually, these alerts will be posted on airline websites and/or their apps, so stay connected.

3. Prearrange your ground transportation at your destination. Avoid a “bah humbug” moment when you land at your final destination! Go ahead and book or reserve your rental car, taxi, ride share or other ground transportation option before you fly.

AROUND THE AIRPORT

Construction update

CONSTRUCTION TRAILERS: Hensel-Phelps, our construction management company, has set up an operating complex and lay-down yard near the I-26 and Airport Road intersection. The area is fenced, and construction trailers and equipment have been installed. Hensel-Phelps will operate from this area during the next four years while building the airport’s new terminal (more to come on that project in 2023).

BUILDING DEMOLITION: A building just north of the airport terminal will be demolished soon, and the area is being prepared so a central energy plant can be constructed in its location. The fenced area is visible on the right (on Terminal Drive) just before you reach the terminal.

EARTHWORK near I-26: You may have seen large piles of dirt and earth moving equipment on the north side of the airport property. Duke Energy is working on improving an area of airport property that they maintain.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

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NOVEMBER 2022