Wingtips Summer/Fall 2024

Cost-effective. Sustainable. Efficient.

These three words define more than just a reconstruction project; they embody the spirit of innovation at Andrews County Airport.

This project encompassed the reconstruction of Andrews County Airport’s main asphalt runway, Runway 16-34, spanning an impressive 5,816 feet. This project also involved the partial reconstruction of Taxiways A, B, C and G. But what sets this project apart is the chosen methodology — full-depth reclamation (FDR).

Instead of the conventional approach of removing the entire existing pavement section and replacing it with new material, FDR pulverizes the existing asphalt and blends it with cement, creating a fortified and flexible base. The result? A sustainable solution that significantly reduces emissions and eliminates the costly process of hauling materials on and off-site.

Beyond the runway, the project addressed critical safety concerns and optimized operational efficiency. The realignment of Taxiway H provided safer access from Runway 11-29 to Taxiway A, while the reconstruction of Taxiway G minimized risks and increased pilot situational awareness.

With the project savings from FDR, Andrews County Airport maximized its growth potential, expanding the development area by 4.5 acres. This expansion creates opportunities for new hangars, paving the way for future development. But that’s not all — electrical lighting upgrades, small drainage improvements and adjustments to the Runway Safety Area grades were implemented to meet with Federal Aviation Administration slope requirements.

The two-phase construction plan not only minimized runway closures but also ensured minimal disruption to businesses relying on the airport. By embracing a cost-effective, sustainable and efficient approach, this project has not only reconstructed infrastructure but has laid the foundation for a brighter future at Andrews County Airport.

From its humble beginnings as an army airfield in the 1940s, Draughon-Miller Central Texas Regional Airport has evolved into a modern, award-winning aviation facility operated by the City of Temple.

Spanning across 922 acres and standing at an elevation of 682 feet above sea level, this airport features two asphalt paved runways, with one stretching 7,000 by 150 feet and the other measuring 4,740 by 100 feet.

Over the years, this airport has undergone a series of transformative projects, each aimed at enhancing safety, efficiency and user experience. These initiatives include:

• A taxiway refurbishment with a compass rose placement;
• Refurbishment of the original beacon tower; and
• Recently purchasing a 2023 Oshkosh Striker 1500 ARFF truck.

Thanks to strategic funding partnerships with the Texas Department of Transportation’s Aviation Capital Improvement Program and Routine Airport Maintenance Program, Draughon-Miller Airport has also:

• Modernized airfield lighting from incandescent to LED;
• Cleared over 17 acres of trees and vegetation in the approach of Runway 03 to clear obstacles;
• Mitigated wildlife hazards in the same area; and
• Constructed eight shovel-ready plots for future corporate hangars and an access road.

Recently, the airport fully funded a $7.4 million construction of a brand-new 6,800-square-foot Fixed-Base Operator and Airport Administration Terminal. A recent visitor stated, “It’s a beautiful new terminal building with a huge, covered awning that can accommodate large corporate aircraft.”

Looking ahead, Draughon-Miller Airport is committed to further enhancements, including:

• The statewide “India” project to crack seal, sealcoat, paint and repaint Runway 16-34;
• Realigning Taxiway D around the approach end of Runway 03 to remove non-standard runway crossing and improve safety for the flying public; and
• Replacing the current Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS) with a new AWOS III system.

With a 35 percent increase in operations and fuel sales over the past five years, Draughon-Miller Airport continues to elevate its existing infrastructure and services, ensuring safety and convenience for all travelers.

The Routine Airport Maintenance Program (RAMP) was established in 1996 as a grant program to support general maintenance and improvement projects in our airport system. RAMP is supported by all 25 TxDOT districts and is available to nearly 300 airports statewide.

RAMP coordinators are TxDOT district designated employees who work with the Aviation Division to provide assistance to airports in their districts. TxDOT districts perform many maintenance functions at our airports with considerable cost savings.

The RAMP Coordinator of the Year award is determined one of two ways — from a coordinator with many years of dedication to a coordinator who has had an outstanding year.

Erick Knowles, this year’s recipient of the RAMP Coordinator of the Year award, has displayed exceptional dedication and a proactive approach that has made a profound impact on our aviation infrastructure, particularly within the Bryan District of Texas.

As a RAMP coordinator, Erick consistently seeks knowledge and actively engages with TxDOT districts and airports. His proactive nature, coupled with his genuine passion for the aviation community, has led to cost-effective maintenance functions and strengthened relationships.

Erick’s commitment to understanding the program and his willingness to navigate complex scenarios reflect his exemplary leadership.

Located along the growing I-45 corridor — about halfway between Houston and Dallas, near a major university, and right down the road from a Buc-ee’s — sits the diamond-in-the-rough Madisonville Municipal Airport.

The airport has long served a diverse range of business users, including the Lazy 8 Flight School and Professional Pilot Services. However, despite its potential, the airport faced significant challenges. An aging pavement section, narrow runway width and outdated electrical lighting system hindered its growth and accessibility to the local community.

Recognizing the airport’s untapped potential, city leadership embarked on a journey of transformation. Local initiatives, including the construction of a terminal building to provide pilot convenience, garnered attention and support from the Texas Department of Transportation, leading to further investments in infrastructure.

In early 2020, a comprehensive project was initiated, encompassing runway reconstruction, runway widening (from a 50-foot width to a 60-foot width), drainage and electrical improvements. Through innovative design and strategic planning, the project aimed to modernize the airport while minimizing construction costs and time.

After months of planning and collaboration, the project broke ground in September 2022. The improvements were completed ahead of schedule in January 2023, marking a new chapter for Madisonville Municipal Airport. Mayor William Parten of Madisonville emphasized, “Our airport continues to show immense potential and plays a key role in the regional economic growth.”

Located in Monahans, Texas, the Roy Hurd Memorial Airport has gone above and beyond to provide exceptional services, safety and innovation to travelers from near and far.

Established in 1946 and dedicated to Ward County’s first World War II casualty, Roy Hurd, this airport covers an area of 277 acres at an elevation of 2,614 feet above sea level. As the only airport in Ward County, this airport features two lighted runways, each measuring 4,920 feet in length and 75 feet in width, and has 18 occupied hangars.

Over the past five years, Roy Hurd Memorial Airport has undergone a remarkable transformation. Beginning in 2020, the airport embarked on a journey of improvements, starting with a complete reconstruction of the main runway, ensuring safer and smoother takeoffs and landings for travelers. But the commitment to improvement didn’t stop there. A complete interior remodel followed, enhancing pilot comfort, safety and flight readiness.

The momentum continued into 2022, as the airport dedicated efforts to seal cracks on three taxiways, minimizing hazards and ensuring optimal runway conditions. Simultaneously, the final phase of upgrading the fuel station was completed, featuring longer hoses, credit card availability, LED lighting and a state-of-the-art fuel truck.

The airport’s commitment to improvement persisted into 2023, with the installation of a metal roof for durability and protection against the elements. Additionally, a carport was constructed for airport courtesy cars, enhancing accessibility and convenience.

Looking ahead to the rest of 2024, Roy Hurd Memorial Airport continues its journey of progress. Plans are underway to seal cracks on the crosswind runway, ensuring continued safety and functionality. Furthermore, metal siding will wrap the terminal, enhancing its appearance and weather resilience. But perhaps most exciting of all is the vision for a much-needed aircraft maintenance hangar. This vital facility will increase the availability of services provided at Roy Hurd Memorial Airport.

Scott Gray, the winner of this year’s airport professional of the year award, is a true exemplar of excellence in aviation management.

During his tenure as airport director with Denton Enterprise Airport, Scott dedicated a tremendous amount of time and service as a member, board member and in various officer positions of the Texas Airports Council. Most recently, Scott served as president of the council, working for the betterment and benefit of general aviation airports across Texas.

Currently serving as the aviation director for the City of Buckeye, Arizona, Scott has over 30 years of aviation experience. His extensive expertise spans all facets of airport management, administration, operations, development and planning. In addition to Denton Enterprise Airport, Scott held key positions such as airport executive director at Washington County Airport, Pennsylvania, and aviation director at Scottsdale Airport, Arizona.

Throughout his career, Scott has spearheaded numerous capital improvements, from runway construction to terminal building renovations, ensuring the highest standards of safety and security for airport users. In addition to managing day-to-day operations, Scott has played a crucial role in developing comprehensive airport strategic plans, paving the way for sustainable growth and financial independence.

As one Denton Enterprise Airport colleague put it, “Scott was always willing to reach out and be a resource for others. He helped make us all better, and for that he deserves this recognition.”

The 42^nd Texas Aviation Conference, hosted by the Texas Department of Transportation’s (TxDOT’s) Aviation Division, took place at Moody Gardens in Galveston, Texas from April 24–26. This year’s conference featured an outstanding lineup of speakers and informative breakout sessions, creating a dynamic aviation-filled event. It attracted over 533 attendees from all over Texas, providing a platform to discuss the latest innovations and pressing issues in general aviation within the state.

The sunny skies of Galveston set the perfect backdrop for the Texas Airports Council Annual Golf Tournament, kicking off the conference in high spirits. Following the tournament, a TxDOT Routine Airport Maintenance Program (RAMP) Coordinators site visit took place early Wednesday afternoon. Later, the day featured a Regionalization and Meet Your Team session that allowed aviation professionals to connect with their counterparts within their newly designated regions. In the spring of 2024, the new regionalization policy was launched, dividing Texas into four regions: North, East, South and West. Each region’s TxDOT team, consisting of two project managers, one contract specialist, one inspector and two planners, participated in the session, introducing themselves to their respective region’s airport professionals, discussing the new policy and answering any questions. This interactive, come-and-go session played a key role in fostering a sense of community and promoting collaborative working relationships among the different regions. The day concluded with a Get Acquainted Reception, allowing aviation professionals, exhibitors and enthusiasts to network and share insights.

The opening session commenced on Thursday morning, featuring the Presentation of Colors by the Galveston Fire Department, followed by the National Anthem sung by Amy Larison.

TxDOT Aviation Division Director Dan Harmon then greeted attendees and introduced Scholes International Airport Director Mike Shahan, who extended attendees a warm welcome to Galveston. After, Harmon delivered his State of the Division Address, where he discussed the historic levels of funding that general aviation has received over the past year.

“With this funding, we are ready to make the necessary changes to enhance the general aviation landscape in Texas.” In addition, Harmon further explained the transition to the regional development model and how this will impact general aviation in Texas. “Having a dedicated development team in each region allows airports within that region to know who to contact, providing consistency and better customer service.” Harmon continued, “The intent with this model is to streamline regional planning, allowing for improved communication.” Harmon ended his address with gratitude, highlighting this year’s record-breaking attendance. “This year marks the largest attendance for the Texas Aviation Conference ever. I want to thank everyone who played a part in planning this event and to the attendees for traveling all this way to participate.”

Following Harmon’s address was the State Legislative Update, moderated by TxDOT’s Director of the Government Affairs Division, Trent Thomas, along with Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association’s Regional Manager for the Central Southwest Area, Tom Chandler, and State Representative Ernest Bailes.

After a short break, a Fireside Chat with Congressman Randy Weber took place, moderated by Board Chair of TxDOT’s Aviation Advisory Committee Shelly deZevallos.

Harmon then gave an Agency Update, where he highlighted TxDOT’s role as a potential agent and the different avenues that airports can take regarding agency.

“Section 22.018 of the Texas Transportation Code outlines TxDOT’s capacity to act as an agent for the local sponsors. It’s important to note that this statute is permissive, meaning that while TxDOT can serve as an agent, it’s not mandatory. Traditionally, we have served as agents for the majority of airport projects.” Harmon continued, “I want to emphasize my support for the agency model; however, I believe there is room for evolution in our approach to agency.”

Harmon proceeded to outline three pathways airports can consider in relation to agency. The first pathway is reimbursable, granting airports more project control provided they adhere to procurement regulations. The second pathway closely resembles the traditional agency model, with TxDOT acting as the agent, conducting vendor evaluations and selecting project vendors. The third and final pathway offers a hybrid option, balancing the risks associated with the previous two options. This approach permits some project components to proceed as reimbursable, granting airports greater autonomy. However, TxDOT would still oversee vendor selection and serve as the agent for the construction phase.

Harmon concluded, “Again, I want to reiterate that I’m a big proponent of the agency model. The options I’ve discussed clarify the respective responsibilities of each party, offering flexibility while ensuring compliance with federal and state statutes.”

Attendees broke out for lunch. During lunch, the Art Contest Awards ceremony took place, celebrating the talented students who participated in the art contest.

After lunch, the Airport Compliance session, moderated by Cat Gomes, showcased Gary Loftus, regional airports compliance manager for the Southwest Region at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and Michael Van Vliet, planner for the Texas Airports District Office. This informative session offered an overview on compliance, analyzed common grant assurance complications, and reviewed hangar use and Part 13 complaints.

The rest of the afternoon was dedicated to two separate breakout sessions, each offering four concurrent presentations.

Among the topics covered during the first breakout session were aviation education, airport construction from a contractor’s perspective, airport 101 A – funding and a Historically Underutilized Business/Disadvantaged Business Enterprise session. The second breakout session featured topics like advancing/emerging technologies, airport consultants, airport 101 B – zoning and minimum standards and an airport pavement tool update.

The day concluded with the Annual Banquet, where the TxDOT Aviation Awards Program acknowledged and celebrated this year’s award winners.

Friday morning consisted of two general sessions. The first session was an FAA update, hosted by FAA Director of the Southwest Region Ignacio Flores. This forty-five-minute session included a questions and answers segment, providing aviation professionals with the opportunity to engage directly with an FAA representative.

The conference concluded with a RAMP session, presented by TxDOT Aviation Division’s Business Services Coordinator Fernando Hernandez and TxDOT Aviation Division’s Business Operations Project Manager David Kirkpatrick.

“I couldn’t be more thrilled with the success of this year’s conference,” Dan Harmon reflects. “We’re so excited and look forward to continuing to provide an exceptional aviation-filled experience for all our attendees in our new location, Denton, Texas.”