Introduction to the Proposed Airport
Las Vegas is making significant progress towards the construction of a new airport, addressing the soaring demand for air travel in the region. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) recently announced their intent to prepare an environmental impact statement for the proposed Southern Nevada Supplemental Airport, located in the Ivanpah Valley, nestled between the towns of Jean and Primm.
Importance of the Environmental Impact Statement
Issuing the environmental impact statement is a critical first step in the federal approval process for a new commercial airport. Local officials have celebrated this milestone, recognizing it as essential in the face of increasing air travel demand. Rosemary Vassiliadis, the Clark County Director of Aviation, emphasized the urgency of the project, stating that it brings Las Vegas one step closer to accommodating the projected rise in air traffic.
Facilities and Capacity of the New Airport
The proposed new airport is set to feature a single terminal and two runways. With its location approximately 23 miles from the bustling Las Vegas Strip, this facility aims to serve both domestic and international flights. Current estimates by the Clark County Department of Aviation indicate that Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) may reach its capacity of 63 to 65 million passengers per year by 2030, highlighting the pressing need for additional airport infrastructure in the Las Vegas area.
