AUSTIN-When many of us think of general aviation airports, if we think of them at all, we may think that they have nothing to do with us. But the impact these facilities have on the lives of the average Texan might surprise you.
Another thing that might surprise you is the role the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) plays in general aviation. In addition to building and maintaining the highway system we all enjoy and from which we all benefit, TxDOT also helps protect and enhance the investment in the state’s aviation system.
More than 300 Texas communities enjoy the benefits of a public airport. These airports are the base for more than 3 million flight hours per year – flights that provide services that might not be available without an airport.
General aviation airports basically provide the same services that commercial airports do, but on a smaller scale. More importantly, they are part of the community infrastructure that serves and benefits the entire community. General aviation airports are divided into four categories. Reliever airports attract general aviation traffic in metropolitan areas to reduce congestion at commercial airports. Transport airports provide access to turboprop and business jet aircraft and most single and twin-engine piston-powered aircraft. General utility airports provide access to smaller communities, and provide limited access to business jets. Basic utility airports provide access to communities for purposes such as agricultural or medical use.
Aviation has an impact on Texas economy of at least $45 billion per year and supports a variety of businesses large and small.
The ways in which a general aviation airport supports its community are manifold. When air travelers-businessmen, tourists, hunters, fishermen-outside a region use a general aviation airport, the entire community benefits. These travelers spend money throughout the community on accommodations, food, shopping and recreation. The money is then re-circulated by the residents on many of the same goods and services. Consequently, this increased business is called the “multiplier effect.”
Agriculture also benefits from aviation. Pest control was one of the earliest uses of aircraft within farming communities. Now, with high tech agricultural methods, such as hydro-seeding, aviation has become an integral part of the modern farmer’s tools.
Improved air access to a community also translates into other benefits. Travelling doctors provide critical medical services to residents of rural communities, and emergency air ambulances transport patients to trauma facilities in larger cities. And the speed and convenience that flying affords, also makes it a valuable tool for veterinarians.
Communities also benefit in ways not commonly associated with aviation. Law enforcement activities, such as aerial surveillance and apprehension of suspects are often overlooked. Using planes is increasing as law enforcement agencies recognize the efficiency and effectiveness of general aviation, particularly in remote areas.
To provide adequate air access to communities within the state, TxDOT has developed the Texas Airport System Plan (TASP). Its goal is to promote and improve the statewide system of airports similar to the interconnecting system of highways that serves our state so well. TxDOT Aviation Division provides technical assistance, including reviewing airport layout plans, evaluating obstructions and the location of proposed new construction, preparing zoning packages and obtaining environmental clearances.
TxDOT can help a community improve its airport through the Aviation Capitol Improvement Program. This program identifies specific projects for development during an upcoming three-year period. TxDOT Aviation Division programs projects for general aviation airports identified in the state system plan. Many communities will benefit from the program this year as the Texas Transportation Commission is expected to approve more than 37 million in grants for airports around the state.
Grants are used by communities to establish, construct, reconstruct, enlarge or repair their airports.
TxDOT also assists airport sponsors with the upkeep of their airports. Many communities partner with TxDOT in the Routine Airport Maintenance Program (RAMP). RAMP uses TxDOT resources to help with pavement repair and markings, drainage improvements and general maintenance.
Certainly, aviation plays a great role in the welfare of all Texans, and TxDOT is in the vanguard with its support.