Los Alamos Airport Plans New Tee Hangars and Rental Car Concession

The Los Alamos County Council held a work session on July 15, 2025, focusing on the future of the local airport and related infrastructure improvements. Key discussions included plans for new hangars, rental car concessions, and enhancing community engagement through tourism initiatives.

During the meeting, Mr. Goddard presented updates on the airport master plan, highlighting the need to replace dilapidated hangars that violate FAA regulations. The proposed construction of new tee hangars aims to accommodate the high demand from local aircraft owners, with approximately 20 individuals currently on a waiting list. The project is primarily funded by a grant from the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT), although some funding shortfalls remain to be addressed in future sessions.

Councillor Henn raised questions about collaboration with the transportation board and the potential for a kiosk to provide information about local businesses and tourism activities. Mr. Goddard acknowledged the importance of these connections and indicated plans to engage with relevant boards to enhance community outreach.

The council also discussed the possibility of introducing a rental car concession at the airport, which could improve accessibility for visitors. Mr. Goddard noted that data from the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) supports the feasibility of this initiative, and he is working on a proposal to present to potential rental car companies.

Concerns were expressed regarding the noise from Classic Air operations, with discussions about relocating their base closer to the airport to minimize disturbances in residential areas. The timeline for these changes is projected to extend several years, with short-term solutions being explored in the meantime.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to enhancing airport facilities and services while fostering tourism and community engagement. The council plans to continue discussions on funding and implementation strategies in upcoming sessions, aiming to create a more vibrant and accessible airport experience for residents and visitors alike.