Recommendations of the Washington State Aviation Planning Council: Long-Term Air Transportation Study

The Washington State Aviation Planning Council's 2009 Long-Term Air Transportation Study (LATS) presents recommendations to Governor Gregoire on the future of Washington's aviation system, which had shrunk from 141 to 138 public-use airports with at least two more at risk of closing. The study warns that over the next decade, 12 airports will approach or exceed capacity limits, while land use encroachment and limited resources threaten the system's viability. Public outreach showed strong support for investing in advanced technology and safety improvements, and greater efficiency in existing airports rather than building new ones.

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July 2009 report of the Washington State Aviation Planning Council (WAPC) to Governor Gregoire presenting recommendations from the Long-Term Air Transportation Study (LATS), mandated by ESSB 5121. Covers Washington State’s aviation system of 138 public-use airports (down from 141 in 2005), capacity thresholds at 12 airports, terminal capacity shortfalls at six airports, hangar and tie-down deficiencies at 39 airports, and threats from land use encroachment. Council members include Carol Moser (Chair), Paul A. Roberts (Vice Chair), John Sibold (WSDOT Aviation Director), Neal Sealock (Spokane International Airport), Donald Garvett (airline representative), and others. Addresses commercial aviation, general aviation, emergency services, airport closures, and state aviation planning policy.

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