RDM instrument landing systems being installed
Redmond Municipal Airport is in the final stages of the reconstruction of Runway 5-23, adding navigational aids that will make travel faster and safer.
The $18.5 million project will conclude and the runway will reopen no later than October 22, officials said Monday.
During this final stage, the Federal Aviation Administration is installing updated navigational aids, also known as Instrument Landing Systems. These systems allow aircraft to navigate through adverse weather conditions when clear viewing of the airfield is not possible, minimizing diversions and lengthy delays for the more than 575,000 annual air travelers who use RDM.
“It’s essential we get these runway guidance systems in place before winter weather approaches. We appreciate the partnership with the FAA whose funding provided the opportunity to complete this complicated runway project,” said Redmond Mayor George Endicott.
“The upgraded ILS installation is a safety and accessibility initiative that ensures our airport will continue to be Central Oregon’s premier transportation hub that meets the needs of residents as well as the business and tourism industries in our region.”
The closure of Runway 5-23 does not impact passengers or the current flight schedule at RDM. Aircraft traffic flight patterns will continue as they have this summer season, with landing and departure activity on Runway 11/29.
RDM offers a range of general and commercial aviation services and is served by four air carriers; Alaska Air, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United with 21 daily direct flights to Denver, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Portland, San Francisco, Salt Lake City, and Seattle. For more information ease visit www.flyrdm.com.
