"Oh thank goodness, I now have a place to land my flying space lab".
Posted on 12/12/2006 9:22:09 AM PST by BenLurkin
MOJAVE - The Mojave Air and Space Port has completed a runway extension project that will pave the way for heavy cargo flights into and out of the airport. The project was funded through Federal Aviation Administration and Caltrans grants, along with matching funds from the East Kern Airport District, which governs the airport.
The extension brings the runway length to 12,500 feet, making it the longest nonfederal runway in Kern County, according to airport officials. It was declared open for use by the Caltrans Division of Aeronautics on Dec. 5.
The longer runway will make possible long-haul freight flights, which may use the airport as a hub for distribution of goods.
Trucking activities could be conducted at vacant areas on the north side of the airport, with access to the State Route 58 bypass and Highway 14, district General Manager Stu Witt said.
A rail spur already connects the airport to the main Southern Pacific line through Mojave.
The activity could lead to the airport becoming the ground distribution center for freight from Central America, Mexico and Asia.
Mojave is already a rail and road hub, with interstate access and the prime location to transport goods in and out of the San Joaquin Valley. Mojave also offers better year-round weather conditions than similar hubs within the often foggy San Joaquin Valley.
The district Board of Directors voiced support for such cargo-moving efforts two years ago.
Although the air and space port remains dedicated to supporting flight test operations, they found that nighttime freight operations would be compatible. Flight test and research operations usually take place during morning daylight hours.
The runway extension is the latest in a series of improvements to the air and space port infrastructure. Other improvements include a new taxiway and taxiway lighting and markings.
(Excerpt) Read more at avpress.com ...
"Oh thank goodness, I now have a place to land my flying space lab".
I hae that book.
I have that exact same book... somwhere ...
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