Airport System Planning
The cornerstone of TTI’s statewide airport activities is participation in TxDOT’s Regional Planning Meeting Program to develop and continuously improve the Texas Airport System Plan. TTI helps conduct public regional airport planning meetings across the state with elected and appointed city and county officials, airport businesses, tenants, users and other interested parties. This continuous airport planning process helps ensure that airports are meeting the needs of the communities they serve, and that the communities are utilizing their airport as an economic generator. Participation in this program has provided TTI researchers with a keen understanding of and familiarity with the operations and challenges associated with the state’s 292 airports.
Airport System Research and Technical Analysis
TTI’s familiarity with the structure and function of the Texas Airport System and the issues it faces makes the Institute a clear choice in conducting research and technical analysis required to support aviation leadership and staff in planning and programming functions. Recent research and analysis projects undertaken by TTI staff include:
- Analyzing impacts on the Texas Airport System of implementing Localizer Performance with Vertical Guidance (LPV) Approach mechanisms;
- Assessing post-runway extension activity changes in demand using data from instrument flight rules;
- Evaluating the impact of airports on surrounding property values; and
- Assessing proposed crosswind runway construction in West Texas.
Air Cargo
TTI research on air cargo activities dates back to the 1970s, but more recently has focused on the level and types of air cargo activities found at airports in Texas. Researchers have focused attention on the landside access issues related to moving freight to and from airports throughout the state. Researchers are currently involved in examining air cargo activity in the 10-state Mississippi Valley Freight Coalition Region in a joint project with researchers at the University of Wisconsin, Madison.