At the other end of the spectrum, a Florida airport is seemingly gearing up to accept larger and noisier jets. According to published reports, the Kissimmee (Fla.) Gateway Airport (ISM) could soon be accommodating aircraft as large as the Boeing 737, all of which comes about as airport officials announced that engineers had discovered the runway pavement is thicker than previously thought. The thicker pavement allows heavier aircraft, like the 737 and/or its Boeing Business Jet cousin, to safely operate from the facility. The discovery came as the airport planned to rework its pavement, anyway. The airport has asked the FAA to review the findings and formally approve the heavier aircraft. It’s not at all clear whether ISM would seek to divert the Mickey Mouse scheduled traffic from nearby Orlando International (MCO) or whether it is simply building on its existing designation as a reliever to attract larger and heavier bizjet traffic. Of course, before any scheduled traffic could use ISM, a terminal would need to be built, including facilities to screen passengers, as well as an approved fire station.
Jets vs. Airports II
Key Takeaways:
- Kissimmee Gateway Airport (ISM) is preparing to accommodate larger aircraft, such as the Boeing 737, after discovering its runway pavement is thicker than previously believed.
- The thicker pavement allows for safe operations of heavier jets, including Boeing Business Jets.
- The airport is seeking FAA approval for these heavier aircraft.
- It is unclear if this move aims to attract larger business jet traffic or potentially divert scheduled flights, which would require significant infrastructure development like a new terminal and passenger screening facilities.
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