Originally published in 1999
Austin has been fortunate to have three airports for many years, Austin Robert Mueller Municipal (AUS), Austin Executive Airpark (3R3) and Bergstrom Air Force Base (BSM). But, in May and June of I 999, the airport system of Austin changed dramatically.
Austin Mueller, home to nearly I 00 based aircraft, closed at the end of May when the former Bergstrom AFB assumed the role of Austin’s new commercial airport, named Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.
Austin Executive, in existence for over 30 years, had about 100 based aircraft. The privately-owned airport was recently sold to developers. The site will be eventually converted into an office park. Thousands of pilots learned to fly at Executive, and it will be missed.
Due to the closures, and high lease rates at Bergstrom, many general aviation aircraft are relocating to other airports near Austin, including Georgetown, San Marcos, Lockhart, Lago Vista and Taylor.
Be sure to keep your sectional chart current, as the radio frequencies, air identifiers, airspace and approaches are changing.