Rep. Salazar And CDOT Secure Funding For SLV Airport’s Landing System

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. John Salazar (CO-3) and the Colorado Department of Transportation Aeronautics Division (CDOT) scored a victory this week for the San Luis Valley Regional Airport in Alamosa by securing $24,000 this year to help maintain the airport’s Instrument Landing System (ILS), a navigational aid that helps pilots take off and land safely in hazardous weather.

For years, the airport has financially struggled to maintain the ILS that is needed by smaller airlines including Great Lakes Airlines and Key Lime Air that land planes several times a day at the airport.

“As a pilot, I’ve relied on this equipment to help me land safely at the Valley’s regional airport,” said U.S. Rep. John Salazar (CO-3).  “Not only is the funding a safety issue, but the extra money allows the airport to make improvements in other areas.”

Last year, Salazar asked the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to maintain the ILS because it helps to safely land several flights a day and is used in the National Airspace System. The FAA responded that the ILS is a non-federal navigation aid that isn’t under their jurisdiction, which doesn’t require the FAA to maintain it.

That is when Salazar turned to CDOT for help.  In response, CDOT’s Aeronautical Board approved a grant that covers 80 percent ($24,000) of the cost. The airport will pay the remaining amount, which is approximately $6,000.

The San Luis Valley Airport Manager, Herry Andrews said, “We want to sincerely thank CDOT, the Colorado Aeronautical Board and Congressman John Salazar for their help in finding a workable solution to the high cost of maintaining the airport’s instrument landing system (ILS).  Congressman Salazar led the discussions first with FAA officials in Washington D.C., and later with CDOT for workable alternatives.  CDOT with the approval of the Colorado Aeronautical Board has stepped forward with 80 percent funding for the maintenance of this important piece of the statewide aeronautical system.  A special thank you is extended to CDOT’s Travis Vallin for his leadership in this process to help the citizens of the San Luis Valley.”