Airport Update

The long anticipated Panama City/Bay County International Airport got a big boost recently.  The Airport Authority announced that it would construct a 10,000 foot main runway at the new airport being built in West Bay.  The runway was originally designed to be 8,400 feet but will not only be longer, but thicker with centerline lighting to accomodate a 10,000 foot runway.  The Florida Legislature, during the 2008 legislative session, awarded the airport an additional $4.5 million in funding to lengthen the runway.  The Airport Authority has begun the permitting process for the runway extension.  The change in length is not expected to impact the construction schedule with the airport expected to open in late May 2010.  Joe Tannehill, Airport Authority Chairman said, "We appreciate the tremendous support we have received from the State of Florida for this new airport.  The State knows how important this new facility is to the future of air service and economic development in Northwest Florida.  it is an investment in the future of the Panhandle and the future of Florida.  This new runway will be the only 10,000 foot commercial runway in the Northwest Florida region."  The airport project, which began in January 2008 with a cost of $318 million is actually 3 months ahead of schedule at this point. This airport is great news for our area.