We are delighted to announce that our GA construction project on the east side of FAI is essentially complete. We have now opened runway 1R-19L to its full 6,500-foot length. The 3,500-foot ski strip (1-19) is also open for business. All signage has been updated to reflect the changes. See Faibanks Airport Diagram for your reference.

A major incentive for this project was to reduce aircraft movements on the long runway (1L-19R) by aircraft positioned on the east ramp. The extension of runway 1R-19L was planned, funded and constructed to be more convenient for the east ramp operators and to reduce congestion on the main runway making maintenance, snow removal, aand large aircraft movement safer and easier. Reducing the number of runway crossings via Bravo taxiway is a major safety issue. The airport is committed to following through on this vision by providing the same level of grooming and ARFF response that is available on the west side. We are asking east ramp cooperation in using the GA runway whenever it is operationally feasible.

The airport is planning to keep the new 6,500 ft runway clean (Tapley of .30 or better) but will close it if snow depth ever reaches two inches. Other than runway 1R-19L the east ramp will be maintained in hard pack snow, which should allow both wheeled and ski equipped aircraft to operate safely. Obviously, in a rare major snow event we could find ourselves in a losing battle to keep both runways clear. The goal is to reduce smaller aircraft usage of the long runway (1L-19R). To ensure that this may happen, we will provide a usable surface on the shorter runway when feasible. During snow removal operations Charlie taxiway will be kept free of snow berms. The west edge of Delta taxiway may have berms for some period during snow removal operations. Access from east ramp parking should always be available via Charlie taxiway.

Additionally, I would like to address the availability of ARFF response on the east side. While it has always been available, one trend I have definitely noticed is the reluctance of civil pilots to use the "e" word (as in "emergency"). One huge advantage of operating at this airport is the superb fire fighting equipment that we have here. That equipment is paid for and the guys who use it don't charge per response. Neither do we "report" responses to the FAA. Several pilots have confided in me that if they are "concerned" they simply land in front of the fire station on the main runway rather than call out the trucks. This is a very poor choice. In the unlikely event that something should happen, having the fire truck standing by the runway could easily be the difference between an adventure and a major tragedy. Our firemen are required to do a minimum number of "response" events per month anyway so they have to make up any shortfall in "training".   Bottom-line, do everyone a favor and let the fire department do its job. Waiting until you smell smoke is too late.

Everything is about resource management... The airport staff is committed to providing the best possible facility for all parties concerned with the resources available. Your input concerning airport operations is valued, helpful, and always carefully considered. I appreciate everyone's patience and support during a difficult construction season and in the days to come.

Mr Ric Barnett, Operations Manager, FAI receives e-mail at:     ric_barnett@dot.state.ak.us