Extending Runway 17L by approximately 1,800 feet to approximately 10,000 feet and enhancing it with a new Instrument Landing System (ILS) is a priority project for the City of Laredo and from its air cargo carriers. The City has the collaborative support of various private entities including BAX Global, UPS, Federal Express, DHL and others.

Runway 17L was reconstructed in 1996 with Portland Concrete and measures 8,201’ x 150’.

DC-8 departures for the most part are weight restricted during Laredo’s hot summer days. A longer runway would solve this issue and allow unrestricted DC-8 departures at any time of the year.

During 2005 a European cargo operator was considering MD-11 Amsterdam/Laredo service.

This is an indication of future opportunities for LRD.

This project will enhance the airport’s safety and provide adequate capacity to continue to handle all types of passenger and cargo aircraft.

Plans and specifications were prepared during 1994. An Environmental Assessment is being prepared.

The City of Laredo requests a FY 2007 AIP Discretionary Grant in the amount of $8.0 million to extend Runway 17L and to extend parallel Taxiway J, to include installing an instrument landing system and acquire RPZ land. The City of Laredo requests that FAA’s F&E fund the Instrument Landing System project.

• Federal Aviation Administration