MASTER PLAN UPDATE CHATTANOOGA METROPOLITAN ...

MASTER PLAN UPDATE CHATTANOOGA METROPOLITAN AIRPORT VOLUME 1 OF 2: Technical Report

Prepared For

CHATTANOOGA METROPOLITAN AIRPORT AUTHORITY Chattanooga, Tennessee

July 2010 FINAL REPORT

Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport Authority Master Plan Update

TABLE OF CONTENTS (Volume 1 of 2) INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................................. i CHAPTER 1 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT PROGRAM ...................................................................... 1-1 1.1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................1-1 1.2 Committees .......................................................................................................................1-1 1.3 Public Information Workshops ..........................................................................................1-1 1.4 Timing ...............................................................................................................................1-2 1.5 Issues................................................................................................................................1-2 1.6 Public Meetings of May 11, 2009 ......................................................................................1-3 1.6.1 User’s Group Comments on the Airport Development Concepts ..............................1-3 1.6.2 The Technical Advisory Group Comments on the Airport Development Concepts ...1-3 1.6.3 Public Information Workshop Number One ...............................................................1-4 1.7 Public Information Workshop of June 1, 2010 ..................................................................1-4 CHAPTER 2 EXISTING CONDITIONS ......................................................................................... 2-1 2.1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................2-1 2.2 Background .......................................................................................................................2-1 2.3 Airfield/Airspace ................................................................................................................2-2 2.3.1 Runway 2-20..............................................................................................................2-2 2.3.2 Runway 15-33............................................................................................................2-2 2.3.3 Navigational Aids .......................................................................................................2-2 2.3.4 Taxiway System.........................................................................................................2-4 2.3.5 Apron Areas ...............................................................................................................2-4 2.3.6 Airspace Environment ................................................................................................2-5 2.3.7 Instrument Procedures ..............................................................................................2-5 2.4 Commercial Passenger Terminal Area .............................................................................2-8 2.4.1 Commercial Service Passenger Terminal .................................................................2-8 2.4.2 Access, Circulation, and Parking ...............................................................................2-9 2.5 General Aviation Facilities ..............................................................................................2-14 2.5.1 Fixed Base Operator................................................................................................2-14 2.5.2 Other General Aviation Facilities .............................................................................2-15 2.6 Cargo Facilities ...............................................................................................................2-15 2.7 Support Facilities ............................................................................................................2-15 2.7.1 Air Traffic Control Tower ..........................................................................................2-15 2.7.2 Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Facility ................................................................2-16 2.7.3 Airport Maintenance Facilities ..................................................................................2-17 2.7.4 Utilities .....................................................................................................................2-17 2.8 Regional Setting and Land Use ......................................................................................2-17 2.8.1 Airport Land Use ......................................................................................................2-17 2.8.2 Airport Height Zoning Restrictions ...........................................................................2-21 2.9 Environmental Overview .................................................................................................2-21 2.9.1 Floodplains ..............................................................................................................2-21 2.9.2 Wetlands ..................................................................................................................2-21 CHAPTER 3 AVIATION FORECASTS .......................................................................................... 3-1 3.1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................3-1 3.2 Historical Activity Review ..................................................................................................3-1 3.2.1 Regional Commercial Service Airports ......................................................................3-2 3.2.2 Location and Other Characteristics of Regional Airports ...........................................3-3 3.2.3 Airlines Providing Service ..........................................................................................3-4 Table of Contents

TOC-i

FINAL REPORT


3.2.4 Domestic Airlines Serving Regional Airports .............................................................3-4 3.2.5 Markets Served..........................................................................................................3-5 3.2.6 Airport Efforts to Improve Air Service ........................................................................3-6 3.2.7 Market Share .............................................................................................................3-7 3.2.8 Annual Enplaned Passengers ...................................................................................3-7 3.2.9 Annual Aircraft Operations.........................................................................................3-9 3.3 Factors Affecting Future Aviation Demand .....................................................................3-11 3.3.1 Impact of September 11, 2001 ................................................................................3-11 3.3.2 National Economic Conditions .................................................................................3-12 3.3.3 Identification of the Air Service Area ........................................................................3-12 3.3.4 Local Socioeconomic Conditions .............................................................................3-13 3.3.5 Major Employers ......................................................................................................3-15 3.3.6 Airline Hubs in Atlanta and Nashville .......................................................................3-17 3.3.7 Airfares ....................................................................................................................3-17 3.3.8 Low Cost Airline Access to Atlanta ..........................................................................3-18 3.3.9 Airline Competition...................................................................................................3-18 3.4 Enplaned Passenger Forecast........................................................................................3-18 3.4.1 Market Share Analysis .............................................................................................3-18 3.4.2 Trend Analysis .........................................................................................................3-22 3.4.3 Regression Analysis ................................................................................................3-25 3.4.4 FAA Terminal Area Forecast ...................................................................................3-28 3.4.5 Indexed TAF ............................................................................................................3-30 3.4.6 Presentation of the Enplaned Passenger Forecast .................................................3-32 3.4.7 The Preferred Forecast............................................................................................3-34 3.5 Air Cargo .........................................................................................................................3-36 3.5.1 Industry Developments ............................................................................................3-36 3.5.2 Carrier Consolidations and Acquisitions ..................................................................3-37 3.5.3 Mail ..........................................................................................................................3-37 3.5.4 Global Trends ..........................................................................................................3-37 3.5.5 Cargo Operations at Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport ..........................................3-38 3.5.6 Regional Air Cargo Operations ................................................................................3-41 3.5.7 Chattanooga Monthly Peaks ....................................................................................3-43 3.5.8 Cargo Forecasts for Chattanooga ...........................................................................3-44 3.6 Based Aircraft Forecast ..................................................................................................3-46 3.7 Aircraft Operations Forecast ...........................................................................................3-48 3.7.1 FAA TAF Operations Forecast ................................................................................3-48 3.7.2 Master Plan Forecast of Operations ........................................................................3-50 3.7.3 Commercial Service Operations Forecast ...............................................................3-51 3.7.4 Military and General Aviation Operations ................................................................3-53 3.7.5 Total Operations ......................................................................................................3-55 3.7.6 Instrument Operations .............................................................................................3-56 3.8 Design Day / Design Hour Activity Forecast ...................................................................3-59 3.9 Comparison With the FAA Terminal Area Forecast ........................................................3-63 3.10 Summary of Forecasts ....................................................................................................3-71 CHAPTER 4 FACILITY REQUIREMENTS .................................................................................... 4-1 4.1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................4-1 4.2 Emerging Trends ..............................................................................................................4-1 4.2.1 Increased Low Cost Carrier Activity ...........................................................................4-1 4.2.2 Very Light Jets ...........................................................................................................4-2 4.2.3 Departure of the Tennessee Air National Guard .......................................................4-3 4.2.4 Potential Increase in Cargo Activity at Chattanooga .................................................4-3 Table of Contents

TOC-ii

FINAL REPORT


4.3 Airfield Requirements........................................................................................................4-4 4.3.1 Airfield Capacity Analysis ..........................................................................................4-4 4.3.2 Runway Requirements ..............................................................................................4-7 4.3.3 Taxiway Requirements ............................................................................................4-19 4.3.4 Electronic, Visual, and Satellite Aids to Navigation .................................................4-21 4.4 Commercial Service Passenger Terminal Complex .......................................................4-22 4.4.1 Gates .......................................................................................................................4-22 4.4.2 Commercial Service Passenger Terminal Building ..................................................4-27 4.4.3 Curbfronts ................................................................................................................4-35 4.4.4 Key Commercial Service Passenger Terminal Complex Trigger Points ..................4-36 4.5 General Aviation Requirements ......................................................................................4-37 4.5.1 Based Aircraft Storage Areas ..................................................................................4-37 4.5.2 Based Aircraft Tie-down Aprons ..............................................................................4-38 4.5.3 Itinerant Aircraft Parking Aprons ..............................................................................4-39 4.5.4 FBO Administration, Pilot Facilities and General Aviation Terminal ........................4-39 4.5.5 FBO Automobile Parking .........................................................................................4-40 4.5.6 Second FBO Facilities .............................................................................................4-40 4.5.7 Very Light Jet Facilities ............................................................................................4-45 4.6 Air Cargo Requirements .................................................................................................4-46 4.6.1 Existing Air Cargo Facilities .....................................................................................4-46 4.6.2 Cargo Terminal Planning Metrics ............................................................................4-46 4.7 Support Facilities ............................................................................................................4-48 4.7.1 Air Traffic Control Tower ..........................................................................................4-48 4.7.2 Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting ............................................................................4-48 4.7.3 Fuel Storage ............................................................................................................4-48 4.7.4 Airport Maintenance.................................................................................................4-53 4.8 Circulation and Parking Requirements ...........................................................................4-53 4.8.1 Terminal Area Circulation ........................................................................................4-53 4.8.2 Parking.....................................................................................................................4-56 4.9 Summary of Facility Requirements .................................................................................4-69 CHAPTER 5 DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION OF ALTERNATIVES .................................... 5-1 5.1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................5-1 5.2 Development and Evaluation of Alternatives Process ......................................................5-2 5.3 Identification of Airport Element Alternatives ....................................................................5-3 5.3.1 Airfield Improvements ................................................................................................5-3 5.3.2 Legend of Alternatives ...............................................................................................5-6 5.3.3 Commercial Service Passenger Terminal and Parking Complex ..............................5-6 5.3.4 Second Fixed Base Operator ..................................................................................5-13 5.3.5 Conventional Hangars .............................................................................................5-17 5.3.6 T-Hangars ................................................................................................................5-23 5.3.7 Air Cargo..................................................................................................................5-28 5.3.8 Maintenance Center ................................................................................................5-31 5.3.9 Airport Business Park ..............................................................................................5-32 5.3.10 Greenways...............................................................................................................5-33 5.3.11 Enhanced Airport Entrances ....................................................................................5-35 5.3.12 First Evaluation of Alternatives ................................................................................5-39 5.4 Airport Development Concepts .......................................................................................5-43 5.4.1 Common Elements in the Airport Development Concepts ......................................5-43 5.4.2 Airport Development Concept One ..........................................................................5-44 5.4.3 Airport Development Concept Two ..........................................................................5-47 5.4.4 Airport Development Concept Three .......................................................................5-51 Table of Contents

TOC-iii

FINAL REPORT


5.5 Evaluation of Alternatives ...............................................................................................5-55 5.5.1 Evaluation of Terminal/Parking Alternatives ............................................................5-55 5.5.2 Evaluation of Second FBO Alternatives ...................................................................5-56 5.5.3 Evaluation of Conventional Hangar Alternatives .....................................................5-57 5.5.4 Evaluation of T-Hangar Alternatives ........................................................................5-58 5.5.5 Evaluation of Air Cargo Alternatives ........................................................................5-59 5.6 Recommended Alternative..............................................................................................5-60 CHAPTER 6 AIRPORT LAYOUT PLAN ........................................................................................ 6-1 6.1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................6-1 6.2 Airport Layout Plan Set .....................................................................................................6-2 6.2.1 Cover Sheet ...............................................................................................................6-2 6.2.2 Airport Layout Plan ....................................................................................................6-2 6.2.3 Facilities Layout Plan .................................................................................................6-2 6.2.4 Terminal Area Plan ....................................................................................................6-2 6.2.5 Airport Airspace Drawing ...........................................................................................6-2 6.2.6 Inner Portion of the Approach Surface for Runway 02/20 .........................................6-3 6.2.7 Inner Portion of the Approach Surface for Runway 15/33 .........................................6-3 6.2.8 On-Airport Land-Use Plan .........................................................................................6-3 6.2.9 Airport Property Map ..................................................................................................6-3 6.3 Airport Compliance With FAA Design Standards ..............................................................6-3 6.4 Airport Layout Plan Highlights and Modifications ..............................................................6-4 CHAPTER 7 FACILITIES IMPLEMENTATION PLAN ................................................................... 7-1 7.1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................7-1 7.2 Proposed Capital Improvement Program Projects ............................................................7-2 7.2.1 Short-Term Capital Improvement Program Projects ..................................................7-2 7.2.2 Short-Term Projects Summary ..................................................................................7-4 7.2.3 Medium-Term Capital Improvement Projects ............................................................7-7 7.2.4 Medium-Term Projects Summary ............................................................................7-10 7.2.5 Long-Term Capital Improvement Program Projects ................................................7-13 7.2.6 Long-Term Project Summary ...................................................................................7-15 7.3 Capital Improvement Program Costs ..............................................................................7-19 7.4 Environmental Considerations ........................................................................................7-22 7.4.1 Forms of Environmental Analysis ............................................................................7-22 7.4.2 Areas of Potential Environmental Impact.................................................................7-23 7.4.3 Agency Coordination and Permitting .......................................................................7-27 7.4.4 Environmental Summary .........................................................................................7-28 CHAPTER 8 FINANCIAL FEASIBILITY ......................................................................................... 8-1 8.1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................8-1 8.2 Enabling Legislation ..........................................................................................................8-1 8.3 Financial Framework.........................................................................................................8-2 8.3.1 Commercial Passenger Airlines .................................................................................8-2 8.3.2 Passenger Parking Facilities Management Agreement: Republic Parking Systems .8-3 8.3.3 Rental Car Agreement: Avis .....................................................................................8-3 8.3.4 Rental Car Agreement: Budget.................................................................................8-4 8.3.5 Rental Car Agreement: Enterprise............................................................................8-4 8.3.6 Rental Car Agreement: Hertz ...................................................................................8-4 8.3.7 Rental Car Agreement: National ...............................................................................8-5 8.3.8 Additional CMAA Leases ...........................................................................................8-5 8.4 Recommended Alternatives Projects Summary ...............................................................8-6 8.5 Additional Capital Improvements ......................................................................................8-8 8.6 Potential Funding Sources ................................................................................................8-9 Table of Contents

TOC-iv

FINAL REPORT


8.6.1 Federal Aviation Administration – Aviation Trust Fund ..............................................8-9 8.6.2 Overview and Status of the Airport Improvement Program .....................................8-12 8.6.3 Obligations and Assurances ....................................................................................8-14 8.7 Airport Improvement Program.........................................................................................8-14 8.7.1 Passenger Service Entitlement Grants ....................................................................8-14 8.7.2 Cargo Service Entitlement Grants ...........................................................................8-15 8.7.3 Discretionary Grants ................................................................................................8-15 8.7.4 Economic Stimulus ..................................................................................................8-19 8.7.5 Facilities and Equipment Program ...........................................................................8-19 8.8 Tennessee Department of Transportation ......................................................................8-19 8.8.1 Finance and Grant Management .............................................................................8-19 8.9 Third Party/Tenant Financing..........................................................................................8-20 8.10 Transportation Security Administration ...........................................................................8-21 8.11 Non-Traditional Funding Sources ...................................................................................8-21 8.12 Local Funding Requirement – Short-Term Capital Projects ...........................................8-27 8.13 FAA Approved Passenger Facility Charges ....................................................................8-27 8.14 Contract (Customer) Facility Charges .............................................................................8-28 8.15 CMAA’S Remaining Funding Requirement .....................................................................8-28 8.15.1 Airport Cash Flow and Reserves .............................................................................8-30 8.16 Local Funding Requirement: Medium-Term and Long-Term Capital Projects ................8-30 8.17 Issuance of Public (Municipal) Debt................................................................................8-33 8.17.1 General Obligation Bonds........................................................................................8-33 8.17.2 General Airport Revenue Bonds ..............................................................................8-33 8.17.3 Industrial Development Bonds/Economic Development Bonds and Special Facility Bonds .................................................................................................................................8-34 8.17.4 Short-Term Financing Instruments ..........................................................................8-34 8.18 Financing CMAA’s Remaining Local Requirement .........................................................8-35 8.19 Allocation of Average Annual Debt Service to Project Elements ....................................8-37 8.20 Historical Financial Information .......................................................................................8-38 8.20.1 Airport Revenues .....................................................................................................8-38 8.20.2 Airport Expenses .....................................................................................................8-41 8.20.3 Operating Surplus ....................................................................................................8-41 8.20.4 Non-Operating Revenues ........................................................................................8-41 8.20.5 Non-Operating Expenses ........................................................................................8-41 8.21 Pro Forma Cash Flow .....................................................................................................8-42 8.21.1 Airport Revenues .....................................................................................................8-42 8.21.2 Operating Expenses ................................................................................................8-46 8.21.3 Pro Forma Cash Flow Analysis Summary ...............................................................8-47 8.22 Summary.........................................................................................................................8-48

TABLE OF FIGURES Figure 2-1 Airport Layout.................................................................................................................2-3 Figure 2-2 Chattanooga Regional Airspace ....................................................................................2-6 Figure 2-3 Chattanooga Low-Altitude Enroute Chart ......................................................................2-7 Figure 2-4 Commercial Passenger Terminal Facility ......................................................................2-8 Figure 2-5 Regional Highway Network ..........................................................................................2-10 Figure 2-6 Vicinity Map..................................................................................................................2-11 Figure 2-7 On-Airport Parking .......................................................................................................2-13 Figure 2-8 ARFF Facility ...............................................................................................................2-16 Figure 2-9 Existing Land Use ........................................................................................................2-19 Table of Contents

TOC-v

FINAL REPORT


Figure 2-10 Future Land-Use Changes.........................................................................................2-20 Figure 2-11 Floodplain Map ..........................................................................................................2-22 Figure 2-12 Wetlands Map ............................................................................................................2-23 Figure 3-1 Geographic Region ........................................................................................................3-3 Figure 3-2 Chattanooga Metropolitan Statistical Area...................................................................3-13 Figure 3-3 Historical Market Share................................................................................................3-19 Figure 3-4 Historical Annual Percentage Change in Enplanements .............................................3-22 Figure 3-5 Chattanooga 2007 Monthly Freight (Pounds) ..............................................................3-43 Figure 4-1 IFR and VFR Airfield Configurations ..............................................................................4-6 Figure 4-2 Terminal Roadway System ..........................................................................................4-54 Figure 5-1 Airfield Improvements ....................................................................................................5-4 Figure 5-2 Location of Alternatives..................................................................................................5-6 Figure 5-3 Terminal/Parking Alternative One ..................................................................................5-7 Figure 5-4 Terminal/Parking Alternative Two ..................................................................................5-9 Figure 5-5 Terminal/Parking Alternative Three .............................................................................5-10 Figure 5-6 Terminal/Parking Alternative Three Ground Level .......................................................5-11 Figure 5-7 FBO Alternative One ....................................................................................................5-13 Figure 5-8 FBO Alternative Two ....................................................................................................5-14 Figure 5-9 FBO Alternative Three .................................................................................................5-15 Figure 5-10 FBO Alternative Four .................................................................................................5-16 Figure 5-11 Conventional Hangars Alternative One ......................................................................5-17 Figure 5-12 Conventional Hangars Alternative Two ......................................................................5-18 Figure 5-13 Conventional Hangars Alternative Three ...................................................................5-19 Figure 5-14 Conventional Hangars Alternative Four .....................................................................5-20 Figure 5-15 Conventional Hangars Alternative Five ......................................................................5-21 Figure 5-16 Conventional Hangars Alternative Six .......................................................................5-22 Figure 5-17 T-Hangars Alternative One ........................................................................................5-23 Figure 5-18 T-Hangars Alternative Two ........................................................................................5-24 Figure 5-19 T-Hangars Alternative Three......................................................................................5-25 Figure 5-20 T-Hangars Alternative Four........................................................................................5-26 Figure 5-21 T-Hangars Alternative Five ........................................................................................5-27 Figure 5-22 Air Cargo Alternative One ..........................................................................................5-28 Figure 5-23 Air Cargo Alternative Two ..........................................................................................5-29 Figure 5-24 Air Cargo Alternative Three .......................................................................................5-30 Figure 5-25 Maintenance Center...................................................................................................5-31 Figure 5-26 Airport Business Park ................................................................................................5-33 Figure 5-27 Southern Greenway ...................................................................................................5-34 Figure 5-28 Northern Greenway....................................................................................................5-35 Figure 5-29 Shepherd Road ..........................................................................................................5-36 Figure 5-30 Shepherd Road Airport Entrance ...............................................................................5-37 Figure 5-31 Enhanced Shepherd Road Entrance .........................................................................5-38 Figure 5-32 Enhanced Jubilee Drive Airport Entrance ..................................................................5-39 Figure 5-33 Airport Elements Common to All Airport Development Concepts ..............................5-43 Figure 5-34 Airport Development Concept One ............................................................................5-46 Figure 5-35 Airport Development Concept Two ............................................................................5-50 Figure 5-36 Airport Development Concept Three .........................................................................5-54 Figure 5-37 Temporary Surface Parking Lot .................................................................................5-61 Figure 5-38 Recommended Alternative.........................................................................................5-65 Figure 6-1 ALP Drawing Set Cover Sheet.......................................................................................6-5 Figure 6-2 Airport Layout Plan ........................................................................................................6-6 Figure 6-3 Facilities Layout Plan .....................................................................................................6-7 Table of Contents

TOC-vi

FINAL REPORT


Figure 6-4 Terminal Area Plan ........................................................................................................6-8 Figure 6-5 Airport Airspace Drawing ...............................................................................................6-9 Figure 6-6 Inner Portion of the Approach Surface for Runway 02/20 ...........................................6-10 Figure 6-7 Inner Portion of the Approach Surface for Runway 15/33 ...........................................6-11 Figure 6-8 On-Airport Land-Use Plan............................................................................................6-12 Figure 6-9 Airport Property Map ....................................................................................................6-13 Figure 7-1 Short-Term CIP Projects ................................................................................................7-5 Figure 7-2 Medium-Term CIP Projects ..........................................................................................7-11 Figure 7-3 Long-Term CIP Projects ..............................................................................................7-17 Figure 8-1 Aviation Trust Fund Funding Sources ..........................................................................8-11 Figure 8-2 FAA Funding ................................................................................................................8-12 Figure 8-3 Historical AIP Authorization and Appropriation 1982-2009 ..........................................8-13

TABLE OF TABLES Table 2-1 Taxiway Summary...........................................................................................................2-4 Table 2-2 Public Parking Facilities ................................................................................................2-12 Table 2-3 Airport-Owned ARFF and Emergency Response Equipment ......................................2-16 Table 3-1 Tennessee and Georgia Commercial Airport Rankings ..................................................3-2 Table 3-2 Distance to Regional Airports..........................................................................................3-4 Table 3-3 History of Airlines Serving the Airport .............................................................................3-4 Table 3-4 Airlines Serving Regional Airports ...................................................................................3-5 Table 3-5 Primary Hub Airports .......................................................................................................3-6 Table 3-6 Airline Market Share........................................................................................................3-7 Table 3-7 Historical Enplanements .................................................................................................3-8 Table 3-8 Historical Operations .....................................................................................................3-10 Table 3-9 Historical and Demographic Information .......................................................................3-14 Table 3-10 Share of Employment by Business Type ....................................................................3-15 Table 3-11 Largest Manufacturing Employers in the MSA ............................................................3-16 Table 3-12 Largest Non-Manufacturing Employers in the MSA ....................................................3-16 Table 3-13 Market Share Analysis ................................................................................................3-21 Table 3-14 Trend Analysis ............................................................................................................3-24 Table 3-15 Regression Analysis....................................................................................................3-26 Table 3-16 Summary Output of a Regression Analysis ................................................................3-27 Table 3-17 FAA 2008 Terminal Area Forecast..............................................................................3-29 Table 3-18 Indexed TAF................................................................................................................3-31 Table 3-19 Summary of Enplaned Passenger Forecasts ..............................................................3-33 Table 3-20 Preferred Enplanement Forecast ................................................................................3-35 Table 3-21 Boeing Global Air Cargo Forecasts.............................................................................3-38 Table 3-22 Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport's Total Cargo (Short Tons) 1997-2006 ..................3-39 Table 3-23 Total Cargo by Carrier (Pounds) July 2007 .................................................................3-39 Table 3-24 Total Cargo Market Share by Carrier July 2007 ..........................................................3-39 Table 3-25 Principal U.S. Domestic Fleets for Chattanooga Integrated Carriers ..........................3-40 Table 3-26 Regional and Peer Group Airports Cargo Tonnage (Short Tons) 1997-2006 .............3-41 Table 3-27 Monthly Freight Totals (Pounds) Transported by Freighters in 2007 ..........................3-44 Table 3-28 2007 Monthly Freighter Landings ................................................................................3-44 Table 3-29 Air Cargo Forecast (Short Tons) - "Base Case" 2007-2027........................................3-45 Table 3-30 Cargo Tonnage (Short Tons) Forecast – “High Case” ................................................3-46 Table 3-31 Based Aircraft Forecast...............................................................................................3-47 Table 3-32 FAA TAF Operations Forecast ....................................................................................3-49 Table 3-33 Historical Commercial Operations ...............................................................................3-51 Table of Contents

TOC-vii

FINAL REPORT


Table 3-34 Commercial Operations Forecast ...............................................................................3-52 Table 3-35 Forecast of General Aviation and Military Operations .................................................3-54 Table 3-36 Total Operations Forecast...........................................................................................3-55 Table 3-37 Primary Instrument Operations ...................................................................................3-57 Table 3-38 Summary of Total Instrument Operations ...................................................................3-58 Table 3-39 Monthly Distribution of Annual Enplanements ............................................................3-60 Table 3-40 Monthly Distribution of Annual Total Operations .........................................................3-61 Table 3-41 Design Day/Design Hour for the Selected Commercial Passenger Forecast .............3-62 Table 3-42 Comparison of the FAA 2008 TAF and the Preferred Enplanement Forecast ...........3-64 Table 3-43 Comparison of FAA 2008 TAF and the Preferred Total Operations Forecast ............3-65 Table 3-44 Comparison of FAA 2007 TAF and the Preferred Based Aircraft Forecast ................3-66 Table 3-45 Summary Comparison of the Preferred Forecast to FAA 2008 TAF ...........................3-68 Table 3-46 Forecast Levels, Growth Rates, and Operational Factors ..........................................3-69 Table 3-47 Summary of the Selected Forecast .............................................................................3-73 Table 4-1 Aircraft Classifications .....................................................................................................4-4 Table 4-2 Aircraft Operational Fleet ................................................................................................4-5 Table 4-3 Peak Hour Airfield Capacity ............................................................................................4-7 Table 4-4 Aircraft Approach Category and Airplane Design Group ................................................4-8 Table 4-5 Airport Reference Code Groups of Aircraft .....................................................................4-9 Table 4-6 Runway Dimensional Criteria ........................................................................................4-10 Table 4-7 Runway Protection Zone Dimensions ...........................................................................4-11 Table 4-8 Low Cost Carrier Hubs and Aircraft Fleet .....................................................................4-12 Table 4-9 Distances Between Chattanooga and Selected Destinations .......................................4-13 Table 4-10 Aircraft Runway Length Requirements .......................................................................4-14 Table 4-11 Runway Declared Distances .......................................................................................4-16 Table 4-12 Runway Pavement Design Strength ...........................................................................4-17 Table 4-13 Aircraft Impacts on Runway Pavement .......................................................................4-17 Table 4-14 Runway Designations .................................................................................................4-19 Table 4-15 Taxiway Dimensional Criteria......................................................................................4-20 Table 4-16 Electronic and Satellite Aids to Navigation..................................................................4-21 Table 4-17 Visual Aids to Navigation ............................................................................................4-22 Table 4-18 Existing Commercial Service Aircraft Parking Positions .............................................4-23 Table 4-19 Enplanements per Gate Methodology.........................................................................4-23 Table 4-20 Departures per Gate Methodology ..............................................................................4-23 Table 4-21 Increase in Gates Based on Percent of Increase in Annual Operations .....................4-24 Table 4-22 Gates Based on Projected Schedules ........................................................................4-24 Table 4-23 Recommended Number of Gates ...............................................................................4-25 Table 4-24 Aircraft Fleet Mix per Planning Period Based on Projected Schedules ......................4-25 Table 4-25 Forecast of Required Gate by Aircraft Design Group .................................................4-26 Table 4-26 Gate Apron Area and Terminal Frontage per Planning Period ...................................4-26 Table 4-27 Summary of Existing and Forecast Commercial Service Terminal Areas ...................4-28 Table 4-28 Existing Departure Lounge Capacity...........................................................................4-29 Table 4-29 Forecast of Departure Lounges ..................................................................................4-30 Table 4-30 Forecast of Check-In Positions ...................................................................................4-31 Table 4-31 Forecast of Baggage Claim Facilities ..........................................................................4-32 Table 4-32 Forecast of Passenger Screening Security Checkpoint Facilities ...............................4-33 Table 4-33 200 Persons per Hour Federal Inspection Facilities ...................................................4-34 Table 4-34 Existing Terminal Curbs ..............................................................................................4-35 Table 4-35 Forecast of Terminal Curbs.........................................................................................4-35 Table 4-36 Key Commercial Service Passenger Terminal Area Trigger Points ............................4-36 Table 4-37 Forecast of Based Aircraft...........................................................................................4-37 Table of Contents

TOC-viii

FINAL REPORT


Table 4-38 Forecast of Conventional Hangar Space and Apron ...................................................4-38 Table 4-39 Forecast of T-Hangar Space and Aprons ...................................................................4-38 Table 4-40 Forecast of Based Aircraft Tie-Down Areas ................................................................4-39 Table 4-41 Forecast of Itinerant Aircraft Parking Areas ................................................................4-39 Table 4-42 Forecast of Second FBO Conventional Hangar Space and Apron .............................4-41 Table 4-43 Forecast of Additional T-Hangars, Area, and Apron ...................................................4-41 Table 4-44 Forecast of Second FBO Based Aircraft Tie-Down Areas ..........................................4-42 Table 4-45 Forecast of Second FBO Itinerant Aircraft Parking Positions .....................................4-42 Table 4-46 Potential FBO Administration, Pilot, and Passenger Facilities ....................................4-43 Table 4-47 Second FBO Automobile Parking Spaces ..................................................................4-44 Table 4-48 Summary of Facilities for a Second FBO ....................................................................4-44 Table 4-49 Planning Guidelines for Air Cargo Terminals ..............................................................4-47 Table 4-50 Planning Guidelines for Air Cargo Ramp ....................................................................4-47 Table 4-51 Total Fuel Storage Facilities ........................................................................................4-50 Table 4-52 Fuel Storage Capacity for a Second FBO ...................................................................4-52 Table 4-53 Existing and Recommended Terminal Roadway Capacities ......................................4-55 Table 4-54 Peak Hour Vehicles on Terminal Roadway System ....................................................4-55 Table 4-55 Parking Supply ............................................................................................................4-56 Table 4-56 Airline Market Share....................................................................................................4-57 Table 4-57 Parking Occupancy - Public Lots ................................................................................4-59 Table 4-58 Public Parking Demand Projections ............................................................................4-60 Table 4-59 Parking Occupancy - Employee Lot ............................................................................4-62 Table 4-60 Employee Parking Demand Projections ......................................................................4-63 Table 4-61 Rental Car Spaces ......................................................................................................4-63 Table 4-62 Rental Car Ready/Return Parking Demand Projections .............................................4-64 Table 4-63 Daily Commercial Vehicle Trips ..................................................................................4-66 Table 4-64 Parking Supply/Demand Summary .............................................................................4-67 Table 4-65 Parking Requirements in Acres...................................................................................4-68 Table 4-66 Summary of Facility Requirements .............................................................................4-69 Table 5-1 Existing Runway Declared Distances .............................................................................5-4 Table 5-2 Proposed Runway Declared Distances...........................................................................5-5 Table 5-3 Airport Element Alternatives..........................................................................................5-41 Table 5-4 Airport Development Concept One Airport Elements ....................................................5-45 Table 5-5 Airport Development Concept Two Airport Elements ....................................................5-49 Table 5-6 Airport Development Concept Three Airport Elements .................................................5-53 Table 5-7 Evaluation of Terminal/Parking Alternatives .................................................................5-55 Table 5-8 Evaluation of Second FBO Alternatives .......................................................................5-56 Table 5-9 Evaluation of Conventional Hangar Alternatives ...........................................................5-57 Table 5-10 Evaluation of T-Hangar Alternatives ...........................................................................5-58 Table 5-11 Evaluation of Air Cargo Alternatives ...........................................................................5-59 Table 5-12 Recommended Alternative Airport Elements ..............................................................5-63 Table 7-1 Short-Term Capital Improvement Program Costs in 2009 Dollars ................................7-19 Table 7-2 Medium-Term Capital Improvement Program Costs in 2009 Dollars ............................7-20 Table 7-3 Long-Term Capital Improvement Program Costs in 2009 Dollars ................................7-21 Table 7-4 Total Capital Improvement Program Costs in 2009 Dollars ..........................................7-21 Table 8-1 FY 2010 Airline Rates and Charges................................................................................8-3 Table 8-2 Avis Rentals ....................................................................................................................8-4 Table 8-3 Budget Rentals................................................................................................................8-4 Table 8-4 Enterprise Rentals...........................................................................................................8-4 Table 8-5 Hertz Rentals ..................................................................................................................8-5 Table 8-6 National Rentals ..............................................................................................................8-5 Table of Contents

TOC-ix

FINAL REPORT


Table 8-7 Additional Agreements and Leases ................................................................................8-6 Table 8-8 Short-Term Development Period ....................................................................................8-7 Table 8-9 Medium-Term Development Period ................................................................................8-7 Table 8-10 Long-Term Development Period ...................................................................................8-8 Table 8-11 Additional Capital Improvements ..................................................................................8-8 Table 8-12 Recommended Alternative and Costs.........................................................................8-17 Table 8-13 Additional CIP Projects ...............................................................................................8-18 Table 8-14 Short-Term Capital Projects Funding Plan ..................................................................8-23 Table 8-15 Medium-Term Capital Projects Funding Plan .............................................................8-24 Table 8-16 Long-Term Capital Projects Funding Plan ..................................................................8-25 Table 8-17 Short-Term Capital Projects Local Funding Plan ........................................................8-29 Table 8-18 Unrestricted Cash Reserves .......................................................................................8-30 Table 8-19 Medium-Term Capital Projects Local Funding Plan ....................................................8-31 Table 8-20 Long-Term Capital Projects Local Funding Plan.........................................................8-32 Table 8-21 Medium and Long Term Capital Projects Bond Sizing................................................8-36 Table 8-22 Medium and Long-Term Capital Projects Allocation of Debt Service .........................8-37 Table 8-23 Medium and Long-Term Capital Projects Debt Service Funding Sources ..................8-38 Table 8-24 Historical Revenues and Expenses ............................................................................8-39 Table 8-25 Pro Forma Cash Flow .................................................................................................8-43 Table 8-26 Projected Airline Cost per Enplaned Passenger .........................................................8-44 Table 8-27 Debt Service - 2009 Bonds .........................................................................................8-47

TABLE OF CONTENTS (Volume 2 of 2)

APPENDICES A. Glossary of Terms, Acronyms and Abbreviations ..................................................................... A-1 B. Public Involvement Program...................................................................................................... B-1 B.1 Technical Advisory Committee and User’s Group Members B.2 Technical Advisory Committee Presentations and Meeting Minutes B.3 Users Group Presentations and Meeting Minutes B.4 Public Information Workshop Boards, Public Comments, and Sign-In Sheets B.5 Public Information Workshop Boards, Public Comments, and Sign-In Sheets C. Aviation Forecast Data .............................................................................................................. C-1 D. Aircraft Takeoff Weight Calculations ......................................................................................... D-1 E. Detailed passenger Terminal Area Requirements..................................................................... E-1 F. Projected Airline Schedules....................................................................................................... F-1 G. Cost Estimates ..........................................................................................................................G-1

Table of Contents

TOC-x

FINAL REPORT


INTRODUCTION The Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport Authority (CMAA) owns, operates, and maintains the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (Airport), located in Chattanooga Tennessee. The Airport provides commercial air transportation, General Aviation (GA), cargo, and other aviation related services to southeast Tennessee and north Georgia. In May of 2007, CMAA selected Reynolds, Smith and Hills, Inc, (RS&H) as the Prime Consultant to prepare an update to the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport’s 2002 Airport Master Plan. CMAA determined the update was necessary to direct future development at the Airport because of increased passengers, landside parking constraints, cargo infrastructure, environmental issues, and the need for considering long-term expansion alternatives of the Airport’s facilities and infrastructure. Presented in this airport master plan update are an evaluation of the Airport’s existing facilities and an identification of actions recommended to meet the current and future air transportation needs of the region. The overall update process involved individual study elements that provided detailed examinations of the existing Airport infrastructure and operating methodologies. The study format followed in this airport master plan update is consistent with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) suggested format as described in Advisory Circular 150/5070-6B, Airport Master Plans. This airport master plan update contains the following chapters: 

Public Involvement Program – Encourages information sharing and collaboration, and identify the key issues of various stakeholders.



Existing Conditions – A gathering of pertinent data for use in subsequent plan elements.



Aviation Forecasts – Forecasts of future levels of aviation activity are the basis for the determination of the need for new or expanded facilities.



Facility Requirements – The determination of what, if any, additional facilities will be required to accommodate the forecast activity by assessing the ability of the existing facilities to meet current and future demand and, if they cannot, determine the additional facilities required.



Development and Evaluation of Alternatives – Identification and evaluation of alternatives for meeting the needs of the airport users, as well as the strategic vision of the airport sponsor.



Airport Layout Plan Set – The preparation of drawings that make up the Airport Layout Plan (ALP), which is a graphic representation of the current and future airport facilities as determined from the review of the aviation forecasts, facility requirements, and alternatives analysis.



Facilities Implementation Plan – Provides guidance on how to implement the findings and recommendations of the planning effort typically including a schedule, a listing of key projects, project descriptions, timing of key activities, estimated development costs, interrelated projects, and special considerations..



Financial Feasibility Analysis – Identifies potential funding sources and demonstrates the airport sponsors ability to fund the projects in the master plan with particular emphasis on the projects expected to be implemented in the near term.

Introduction

i

FINAL REPORT


In addition to the components noted above, various appendices are provided to supplement the text as appropriate. The appendices include a glossary of terms used in the master plan update and meeting minutes of the Public Involvement Program, as well as supplemental data.

Introduction

ii

FINAL REPORT


CHAPTER 1 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT PROGRAM 1.1

INTRODUCTION

A public involvement program is an essential part of the Master Plan Update as it will encourage information sharing and collaboration. Involved parties include:  The Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport  The users  Tenants  Resource agencies  Elected and appointed public officials  Residents  Travelers  The public Collectively, these various groups form the stakeholders who have an interest in the outcome of the study. An effective public involvement program should provide these stakeholders with an early opportunity to comment, before major decisions are made; provide adequate notice of opportunities for their involvement; and should provide for regular forums throughout the study.

1.2

COMMITTEES

Two committees assisted the Airport and the Master Plan Team throughout the Master Plan process:  The Technical Advisory Committee  The User’s Group The Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) was responsible for providing input and insight on detailed operating and facilities issues as they pertained to the Airport and specific elements of the Master Plan Update. They evaluated the Master Plan Update on its technical merits. This committee was made up of local and regional planning organizations, the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TNDOT), and the Air Traffic Control Tower (ATCT) personnel, among others. The User’s Group was made up primarily of community leaders and served as a sounding board and information exchange group for the stakeholders. This committee weighed recommendations made in the Master Plan Update against community goals, values, and needs. Both committees reviewed the planning team’s plans and proposals and interacted with the planning team members during the review. The User’s Group also made consensus recommendations to the planning team and gave its recommendation on the finished plan to the Airport. Both committees were advisory and had no decision making power of their own. A complete list of the participants of each committee can be found in Appendix B.

1.3

PUBLIC INFORMATION WORKSHOPS

Two Public Information Workshops were held during the course of the Master Plan Update. The purpose of these meetings was to inform the public of the process and the progress made. Further goals were to obtain public response and input and to coordinate planning objectives with the

Public Involvement

1-1

FINAL REPORT


needs and concerns of local community organizations and the public at large in a timely fashion, so as to enhance public acceptance of the study’s findings and recommendations. Each Public Information Workshop was held in an informal “open house” format with interactive information stations staffed by knowledgeable Airport staff or members of the planning team. This permitted the public and other stakeholders to visit the meeting site at their convenience and visit with planners on a one-to-one basis. Information could be exchanged and the public was given the opportunity to record their views, opinions and concerns either in writing or verbally.

1.4

TIMING

The first meeting with the Technical Advisory Committee was held shortly after the commencement of the Master Plan Update on September 7, 2007. The first meeting of the User’s Group and the second meeting of the TAC took place after data on the existing conditions at the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport had been collected and documented and the Aviation Forecasts had been developed and submitted to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for review and approval. Each committee met separately, but on the same day, January 17, 2008. The next meeting of both committees took place on the same day as the first Public Workshop, May 11, 2009. These meetings occurred after the FAA approved the Aviation Forecasts, Facility Requirements were developed, and Alternatives had been developed to address facility deficiencies identified in the Facility Requirements. Both committees and the public were informed of the progress made to that point and their opinions and ideas were sought and recorded. Only after these opinions and ideas had been received, reviewed, and addressed were the Alternatives evaluated and a recommended alternative selected. The last meetings of the committees and the second Public Information Workshop will take place after the recommended alternative has been selected, refined, and translated into specific Airport Layout Plans. An Implementation Plan complete with scheduling, phasing, and preliminary costing and funding will have been developed. Each of these will be reviewed with the committees and the public and their views and concerns will be recorded and addressed prior to the completion of the Master Plan Update. Meeting minutes of the TAC and User’s Group as well as documentation of the Public Information Workshops will be found in Appendix B, which will be updated as future meetings take place.

1.5

ISSUES

A preliminary list of key issues to be addressed in the Airport Master Plan Update was developed by the Airport staff. These issues were reviewed with the Technical Advisory Committee in their meeting of September 7, 2007 and additional issues were identified and consolidated with the preliminary list. This resulted in the following issues to be addressed by the Master Plan Update: 

Provide realistic parking solutions to provide sufficient passenger vehicular parking.



Develop a consolidated, efficient plan for general aviation activities that will allow them the maximum potential to grow, while not adversely affecting other Airport activities.



Identify the issues causing flooding in certain areas of the Airport and develop plans to improve the drainage of these areas.

Public Involvement

1-2

FINAL REPORT




Determine and evaluate the prospects for cargo expansion at the Airport and develop plans for the conditions and resources required to attract significant cargo operations.



Create a plan for the Airport to remain an efficient user-friendly airport, while implementing capacity to meet aviation demands and the needs of the community to the year 2026.



Create a Capital Improvement Program (CIP) that identifies funded projects, unfunded projects, priorities, and potential sources of funds.



Provide clear justification of CIP projects.



Meet FAA design, safety, and security standards for the entire Airport.

This Master Plan Update will address these issues in detail, and discuss practical solutions that will allow the Airport to sustain further growth during the planning period Each of the Airport Development Concepts was presented to the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport Authority, the Technical Advisory Committee, and the User’s Group and their comments were solicited. The Airport Development Concepts were also presented to the public in the First Public Information Workshop.

1.6

PUBLIC MEETINGS OF MAY 11, 2009

On May 11, 2009, three Public Involvement meetings were held with respect to the Chattanooga Master Plan Update. The three meetings were with the Technical Advisory Committee, the User’s Group, and the first public Information Workshop. At each meeting, the participants were updated on the progress of the study and were shown alternatives for the long-term, 20-year development of the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport. Comments from the public and each of the committees were solicited. Meeting minutes of the Technical Advisory Committee and the User’s Group can be found in Appendix B. Written comments from the Public Information Workshop can also be found in Appendix B. 1.6.1

User’s Group Comments on the Airport Development Concepts

Within the User’s Group, the comments and questions were more broad and general in nature. However, in general the User’s Group was receptive to the idea of upgrading those areas of the Airport that adjoin Brainerd Road/Lee Highway. Meeting minutes of the User’s Group Meeting can be found in Appendix B. It was stated that rather than a mounted Cessna jet at the Jubilee Drive entrance that something coming from the Art in Public Places program would be preferred. The Airport staff indicated that it was anticipated that the jet would be donated. Suggestions were made to move the parking garage in Terminal Alternative 2 to the north to avoid blocking the view of the terminal from Airport Road. It was also felt that the railroad line that runs east of the Airport and in front of the Airport terminal should connect to downtown Chattanooga. 1.6.2

The Technical Advisory Group Comments on the Airport Development Concepts

The Technical Advisory Group (TAC) had some very specific comments and suggestions to make concerning the various Airport Development Concepts and specific alternatives. Meeting minutes for the Technical Advisory Committee can also be found in Appendix B.

Public Involvement

1-3

FINAL REPORT


The air traffic controllers were concerned about the height of the maintenance center. It was cautioned that when planning and designing the facility that line of sight issues with respect to the runway ends, taxiways, and aprons should be studied very carefully. Of the T-hangar alternatives, the TAC preferred T-hangar Alternative Two and T-hangar Alternative Four. With these two alternatives, it was felt that the air traffic controllers would have better visibility between the buildings than with T-hangar Alternative Five. Of the air cargo alternatives, Air Cargo Alternative One and Air Cargo Alternative Three were preferred. It was felt that Air Cargo Alternative Two would need a lot of work done to the apron and that the apron would have to be made deeper to serve cargo adequately. Of Air Cargo Alternatives One and Three, it was appreciated that the cargo trucks could travel down Jubilee Drive to a stoplight at Brainerd Road, and could then travel directly to Interstate 75. 1.6.3

Public Information Workshop Number One

Comments were received in two ways from the Public Information Workshop: comment cards that could be filled out at the meeting or mailed in later, and comments could and were e-mailed to the planning team members. In general, the comments mainly concerned the interface of the Airport and the surrounding neighborhoods. Some comments are summarized in this section. All comments received in writing from the Public Information Workshop can be found in Appendix B. Concern was expressed over the existing noise from C-130 military training flights. Another concern was that an increase in the number of air cargo flights would generate more noise. Positive comments were received with respect to the proposed greenways, especially the Southern Greenway. It was felt that this change would markedly improve the appearance of the neighborhood. Concern was also expressed about the possibility of increased Airport related vehicular traffic on Brainerd Road and Lee Highway. It was felt that there was already too much traffic on this road.

1.7

PUBLIC INFORMATION WORKSHOP OF JUNE 1, 2010

On June 1, 2010, a second Public Information Workshop was held at the Brainerd Crossings community center to update the public on the progress of the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport Master Plan Update and to solicit comments. As the public entered the room in which the meeting was held, they were invited to view a short PowerPoint presentation that explained what a Master Plan is, the Goals and Objectives of this Master Plan Update, and a short synopsis of the first Public Information Workshop. After the PowerPoint, there were a number of boards set up on easels illustrating the Recommended Alternative, breaking it into phases and individual projects, and presenting cost estimates and probable funding sources for each of the individual projects. The public was invited to give written comments in one of three ways. First, comment cards were provided that could be submitted that evening. Second, the comment cards could be taken home and mailed. Third, e-mails to the consultant could be sent within a period of about ten days. Written comments from the Public Information Workshop, as well as copies of the PowerPoint presentation and the Presentation Boards can be found in Appendix B.

Public Involvement

1-4

FINAL REPORT


CHAPTER 2 EXISTING CONDITIONS 2.1

INTRODUCTION

The Existing Conditions chapter documents the existing conditions of the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport and identifies the area it serves. The material in this chapter provides essential background information for the Master Plan. The objective is to provide background information for subsequent phases of the analysis. This information was obtained through on-site investigations of the Airport, as well as interviews with Airport management, fixed base operators, and tenants. Other sources are the collection and analyses of Airport data, previous reports, and studies. The pertinent data presented here provides information associated with the following:        

Airport Background Airfield/Airspace Commercial Passenger Terminal Area General Aviation Facilities Cargo Facilities Support Facilities Regional Setting and Land-use Environmental Overview

2.2

BACKGROUND

The first scheduled air carrier operation in Tennessee took place in Chattanooga in 1928 at Marr Field, located off the Amnicola Highway. Chattanooga was a stopover on the Contract Air Mail route served by Interstate Airlines between Atlanta, Georgia and Chicago, Illinois. Soon, in 1930, due to the interest and foresight of John Lovell, a new Chattanooga Airport was established with an unpaved runway at its present location and was named Lovell Field in his honor. In 1936, the landing area was expanded and runways paved as a part of the New Deal’s Works Progress Administration (WPA). The original terminal building was also built at that time and expanded in 1950 and 1955 by the City of Chattanooga before being replaced by a new terminal building in 1964. That terminal was replaced approximately 30 years later by the current commercial passenger terminal. Lovell Field served as a military training facility throughout World War II. Post-war growth in aviation in the 1950s led to a transfer of its operations to the City of Chattanooga and significant airport expansion with construction of a new runway, which serves as the primary runway today. The Airport ownership was transferred from the City of Chattanooga to the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport Authority (CMAA) in July of 1985. The Tennessee Metropolitan Airport Authority Act1 provides that the CMAA’s basic operations be governed by the terms set forth in the Metropolitan Airport Authority Act, as well as by the CMAA by-laws. As a separate legal entity, the CMAA is authorized to adopt operating procedures, policies, and requirements separate from those in use by the City of Chattanooga and to establish and charge fees, rentals, and other charges. Federal airport grant assurances (49 U.S.C. 47107(a) (13)), require airports that accept federal money to be as self-sustaining as possible. Because the CMAA does not receive local tax 1

Metropolitan Airport Authority Act, Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 42-4-101, as amended

Existing Conditions

2-1

FINAL REPORT


dollars, it must raise money through other means. This is done through contracts, licenses, permits, and leases issued both for aeronautical and non-aeronautical airport purposes, and through fees charged to offset the cost of regulation of certain activities. The Board of the CMAA consists of nine commissioners. The City of Chattanooga appoints all Airport Authority Board members. The day-to-day management of the Airport is carried out through the President of the CMAA and a staff of aviation professionals.

2.3

AIRFIELD/AIRSPACE

The Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport’s airfield facilities include the runways, taxiways, apron areas, visual aids, and navigational aids. These airfield assets are operable within an aeronautical environment associated with the local, regional, and national system of airports. The aeronautical environment includes the surrounding airspace and the aeronautical activity that takes place within the airspace, including arrival and departure procedures. The following sections provide a description of the airfield and airspace associated with the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport. 2.3.1

Runway 2-20

The dimensions and characteristics of a runway are dependent on the aircraft that use the airport and the design standards associated with those types of aircraft. The orientation of the runways depends on the direction of the prevailing wind patterns, the size and shape of the area available for development, and the land-use or airspace restrictions near the airport. The primary runway at the Airport, based upon predominant runway use, is Runway 2-20, which has a length of 7,400 feet and a width of 150 feet, as shown in Figure 2-1. The runway pavement is grooved asphalt and is in good condition, based on the 2005 Pavement Study conducted by Dynatest. The runway is equipped with centerline lights, as well as High Intensity Runway Lights (HIRL) and has precision instrument markings on both ends. The approach lighting consists of a Medium Intensity Approach Lighting System with Runway Alignment Indicator Lights (MALSR) on the Runway 2 end. The Runway 20 end is equipped with a High Intensity Approach Lighting System with Sequenced Flashing Lights. The Runway 2 end also has a Visual Approach Slope Indicator (VASI) to assist landing aircraft. 2.3.2

Runway 15-33

The crosswind runway is Runway 15-33, which has a length of 5,575 feet and a width of 150 feet. The pavement is in excellent condition as a runway rehabilitation and extension have recently been completed. The runway is equipped with Medium Intensity Runway Lights (MIRL) and has nonprecision instrument markings on both ends. The Runway 15 end is equipped with a PAPI, while the Runway 33 end is equipped with a PAPI to assist landing aircraft. 2.3.3

Navigational Aids

Navigational aids (NAVAIDs) assist the pilot with enroute navigation and approaches into and departures out of airports. These aids consist of both ground–based electronic systems and a space-based radio system.

Existing Conditions

2-2

FINAL REPORT


Source: G-Squared Mapping

N

i

Figure 2-1 AIRPORT LAYOUT

NAVAIDs in use at the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport include two Instrument Landing Systems (ILS), a Runway Visual Range (RVR) transmissometer, a segmented circle with a lighted wind

Existing Conditions

2-3

FINAL REPORT


cone, and the Airport Surveillance Radar (ASR-8). A Very High Frequency Omnidirectional Range (VOR) facility is located approximately five miles southeast of the airfield and serves aircraft utilizing the Airport. 2.3.4

Taxiway System

The primary function of a taxiway system is to provide access between runways and the apron areas. Taxiway A serves as a parallel taxiway to Runway 2-20. The taxiway provides access from the commercial passenger terminal area to both the Runway 2 end and the Runway 20 end and is in good condition. Taxiway D serves as a full parallel taxiway to Runway 15-33 and is in good condition. There are several exit taxiways used to access both the commercial passenger terminal area as well as provide access for the Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) facility. A description of each taxiway is provided in Table 2-1. Table 2-1 TAXIWAY SUMMARY Taxiway Taxiway A Taxiway B Taxiway C Taxiway D Taxiway E Taxiway F Taxiway G Taxiway H Taxiway J Taxiway K Taxiway Z

Width 60 ft. 75 ft. 60 ft. 60 ft. 60 ft. 75 ft./ 60 ft. 75 ft./ 60 ft. 75 ft. 60 ft. 60 ft. 60 ft.

Pavement Condition Good Good Good Excellent Fair Good Good Excellent Excellent Fair Excellent

Source: Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport, 2007 and 2005 Pavement Study, Dynatest

2.3.5

Apron Areas

The air carrier apron serving the commercial passenger terminal concourse is constructed of concrete and is in good condition. The apron area totals approximately 225,000 square yards. The apron area just north of the air carrier apron is known as TAC Air North. TAC Air, a division of Truman Arnold Companies, is the Fixed Base Operator (FBO) at the Airport. The TAC Air North apron is of asphalt construction and is in fair condition. It is approximately 98,000 square yards in size and primarily serves general aviation aircraft. Directly south of the air carrier apron is the apron area known as TAC Air South. This apron is of concrete construction and in good condition. It is approximately 62,000 square yards in size and primarily serves general aviation aircraft. Further to the south is located a combination cargo and general aviation apron that is of concrete construction and in poor condition. The area of the apron used for cargo totals approximately 30,000 square yards, while the general aviation portion totals approximately 150,000 square yards.

Existing Conditions

2-4

FINAL REPORT


There are several smaller apron areas on the west side of the airfield. These include the ARFF apron that is approximately 34,000 square yards in size and is in excellent condition. There are also two general aviation aprons that total approximately 45,000 square yards in size. Both aprons are in excellent condition. 2.3.6

Airspace Environment

The national airspace system consists of various classifications of airspace that are regulated by the FAA. Airspace classification is necessary to ensure the safety of all aircraft using the facilities. The primary function of airspace classification is to separate air traffic. The airspace associated with Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport is depicted on the Atlanta Sectional Aeronautical Chart shown in Figure 2-2. The airspace surrounding the Airport is designated as Class C airspace during the period of 6:00 am to 11:50 pm eastern standard time (EST). At all other times the airspace is designated as Class E airspace. The Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport Class C airspace consists of a five nautical mile (NM) radius around the airfield that extends from the surface up to 4,000 feet above ground level (AGL) and a 10 NM radius shelf area that extends from various altitudes (due to the surrounding terrain) up to 4,000 feet AGL. There exists an “outer area”, not depicted in Figure 2-2, which is associated with the Airport’s Class C airspace and extends out for a 20 NM radius around the Airport. The Airport has a Federal Air Traffic Control Tower (ATCT) that operates during the 6:00 am to 11:50 pm EST period. Aircraft operating under both Visual Flight Rules (VFR) and Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) must maintain contact with the ATCT when operating within the Airport’s Class C airspace. During the hours that the ATCT is not in operation, IFR traffic must maintain contact with Atlanta Center. There are several Victor airways near the Airport. A Victor airway serves as a sort of “highway in the sky” between NAVAIDs that aircraft frequently use to navigate while enroute. While these airways provide enroute navigation, navigational procedures between the Airport and the airways themselves is provided by published instrument approaches and departure procedures. Airways and associated NAVAIDs near the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport are depicted in Figure 2-2 and Figure 2-3. Instrument approaches and departures at the Airport are controlled through Chattanooga Approach and Departure Control as well as Atlanta Center. All aircraft into and out of the Airport may also utilize the services provided by the Nashville Flight Service Station (FSS). In addition, aircraft enroute to, or near the Airport may receive pertinent weather information from the Automated Surface Observing System (ASOS) station located on the airfield. Several areas of “special use” airspace located east of the Airport include Alert Area A-685 and the Snowbird Military Operations area. Alert areas are those areas that may contain a high volume of pilot training or an unusual type of aerial activity, while a Military Operations Area allows for separation between military activities and IFR operations. 2.3.7

Instrument Procedures

Instrument procedures associated with an airport can include standard terminal arrivals (STAR), departure procedures (DP), and published instrument approach procedures.

Existing Conditions

2-5

FINAL REPORT


Source: National Aeronautical Charting Office, 2006

Figure 2-2 CHATTANOOGA REGIONAL AIRSPACE

Existing Conditions

2-6

FINAL REPORT


Source: National Aeronautical Charting Office, 2007

Figure 2-3 CHATTANOOGA LOW-ALTITUDE ENROUTE CHART

Existing Conditions

2-7

FINAL REPORT


The instrument approach procedures are further classified as non-precision and precision approaches. Non-precision approaches differ from precision approaches in that they provide only horizontal guidance information, while precision instrument approaches provide both horizontal and vertical guidance information. With the addition of vertical guidance information, precision approaches enable aircraft operations in lower visibility and cloud ceilings. The Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport has both non-precision and precision approaches.

2.4

COMMERCIAL PASSENGER TERMINAL AREA

The Chattanooga Metropolitan commercial passenger terminal was completed in the early 1990s and offers a modern, well-appointed, and well-maintained facility. The ground level accommodates the ticketing lobby with approximately 30 check-in counters; office and operational space for the five airlines that currently serve the Airport; a baggage claim facility that has two flat-bed baggage claim devices; offices and counters for five rental car companies; and restrooms and offices for some of the commercial passenger terminal functions. 2.4.1

Commercial Service Passenger Terminal

The public reaches the second level of the terminal via stairs, elevators and escalators located in the rotunda lobby. The second level accommodates the offices of the Airport administration, a restaurant concession, a gift shop, and a passenger waiting area. All of these functions are located on the non-secure side of the Airport. The Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) passenger security screening checkpoint, which has one security lane, is also located on the second level. On the secure side of the passenger-screening checkpoint, there are five departure lounge areas with associated gates. There is also a business center, restrooms, and a small snack-bar/newsstand in the secure area. Figure 2-4 COMMERCIAL PASSENGER TERMINAL FACILITY

Existing Conditions

2-8

FINAL REPORT


2.4.2

Access, Circulation, and Parking

Convenient, simple, and efficient access to the commercial passenger terminal is an integral part of an airport system. Airport access consists of connecting roadways that enable airport users to enter and exit the airport, on-airport circulation, and parking facilities. Off-Airport Access Roads Ease of passenger access to an airport is an important factor for airport customer service. Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport is located near both Interstates 24 and 75, on the east side of downtown Chattanooga. Interstate 24 predominantly runs southeast from Nashville to Chattanooga, and then merges into Interstate 75. Interstate 75 runs north and south from Michigan to the west coast of Florida, and is the main Interstate from Chattanooga to Atlanta, Georgia. US 11/64 (Lee Highway) runs west from the Airport to the downtown Chattanooga area, while State Route 153 is located east of the Airport and runs north to meet US 27, approximately 10 miles north of downtown. Figure 2-5 shows the regional highway network for the Chattanooga area. Passenger access to the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport is gained from State Road 153 located west of the Airport via the Shepherd Road/Airport Connector Road. The Airport can also be accessed directly from Airport Road, which constitutes the eastern boundary of the commercial passenger terminal area. Figure 2-6 shows ground access in the immediate area of the Airport. On-Airport Circulation On-airport circulation consists of both public access roads and non-public airport service roads. Access to the commercial passenger terminal and associated parking lots is provided via a twolane “loop road” accessed from both the Airport Connector Road and Airport Road. The short- and long-term parking lots can be accessed from the left lane of the loop road, while both lanes continue around the parking areas and to the terminal curbfront. The interim parking lot can be accessed from the right lane of the loop road just prior to the commercial passenger terminal. Once in front of the terminal, the loop road becomes four lanes that split into two groups of two to allow through traffic to flow more easily. Past the terminal curbfront, the loop road once again narrows to two lanes and provides access to the rental car ready/return spaces, as well as access back to Shepherd Road via the Airport Connector Road and Airport Road. The traffic exiting the short-, interim- and long-term parking lots are routed back onto the loop road. Access to the TAC Air North FBO facility is provided via Airport Road, while access to TAC Air South is provided from an un-named Airport road that is accessed from Airport Road. Access to the general aviation and cargo facilities on the south side of the Airport is provided via Pinehurst Road, which is accessed from Airport Road. General aviation facilities on the northwest side of the airfield are accessed by way of the Lovell Field Loop via Airport Road. The ARFF facilities on the west side of the airfield are accessed via a perimeter roadway, which can be accessed from Brainerd Road and sits atop the Brainerd Levee.

Existing Conditions

2-9

FINAL REPORT


Figure 2-5 REGIONAL HIGHWAY NETWORK Existing Conditions

2-10

FINAL REPORT


Figure 2-6 VICINITY MAP Existing Conditions

2-11

FINAL REPORT


Airport Parking An airport typically provides short- and long-term public parking facilities to accommodate passenger demand. The Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport also has an interim-term public parking lot. The on-airport surface parking lots are operated by Republic Parking Systems. They are located directly south and east of the commercial passenger terminal as shown in Figure 2-7. Table 2-2 shows the current number of spaces and rates for the on-airport passenger parking facilities. Table 2-2 PUBLIC PARKING FACILITIES Facility Short-term Interim Long-term

Spaces 173 220 739

Fee Structure 15 Minutes Free, $1.00 Each Additional 30 Minutes, $12.00 Per Day 15 Minutes Free, Each Additional 30 Minutes $.75, $7.00 Day $1.00 Hour, $7.00 Day

Source: Republic Parking Systems, 2007

The public parking supply has been strained in recent years due to the rapid growth and popularity of travel from the Airport. The long-term parking spaces are often 100 percent utilized during the middle of the week and travelers must use inconvenient off-airport parking areas. Recently, the Airport constructed a temporary, gravel parking lot south of the terminal parking facilities. This lot is served by a shuttle operated by the Airport and has an additional 150 spaces to those listed above. Airport employees were using 80 to 85 public parking spaces in the terminal parking area, but are now required to park near the maintenance facility and take the shuttle to the terminal. Rental Car Facilities Five on-airport rental car agencies and one off-site agency serve the Airport. The following sections provide a brief description of each of the on-airport agencies. AVIS The Avis Rent A Car System currently has 21 employees that work at both the commercial passenger terminal counter and the Quick Turn Around (QTA) facility located east of the terminal area. Directly south of the commercial passenger terminal, Avis uses 22 ready/return spaces. The QTA is a wash, and re-fueling facility that has approximately 150 auto storage spaces, one automated wash facility, and a 10,000 gallon unleaded fuel tank. Avis also performs light maintenance at this facility. BUDGET The Avis/Budget Group also operates the Budget Rent A Car franchise. Both Budget and Avis utilize the same 21 employees, but have separate facilities. Budget operates an off-site QTA facility located on nearby Sheppard Road and uses 12 ready/return spaces south of the commercial passenger terminal building. The QTA facility includes one automated wash facility, a 2,500 gallon unleaded fuel tank, and a 2,500-gallon diesel fuel tank.

Existing Conditions

2-12

FINAL REPORT


Source: G-Squared Mapping

N

i

Figure 2-7 ON-AIRPORT PARKING

Existing Conditions

2-13

FINAL REPORT


ENTERPRISE The Enterprise Rent-A-Car has four full-time employees, three part-time employees, and one manager to run its on-airport operations. Enterprise uses 13 ready/return spaces and does not store any additional cars nearby, but uses cars from its other locations. Fueling, light maintenance, and automobile cleaning are all done at local gas stations and wash facilities not associated with Enterprise. HERTZ The Hertz Corporation has 35 employees to run its on-airport operations at both the commercial passenger terminal counter and their QTA facility located south of the long-term parking lot. Hertz uses 27 ready/return spaces in the lot southeast of the terminal, and stores a small number of additional cars at its QTA facility. The QTA facility includes one automatic car wash and a 10,000 gallon unleaded fuel tank. NATIONAL National Car Rental occupies 23 ready/return spaces in the terminal lot and has capacity for 100 automobiles in storage at its QTA facility located east of the Airport. No light maintenance is performed at the QTA facility, but it does include an area to hand wash the automobiles, as well as a 12,000 gallon unleaded fuel tank.

2.5

GENERAL AVIATION FACILITIES

Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport is a full service airport providing facilities for the general aviation sector, as well as the commercial passenger sector. The general aviation facilities at the Airport are primarily located in two areas and consist of a fixed base operator, various buildings, hangars, and apron space. All general aviation facilities at the Airport are generally located east of Runway 2/20 and north of Runway 15/33. A discussion of services provided, is in the following sections. 2.5.1

Fixed Base Operator

A Fixed Base Operator (FBO) is an airport business that provides aircraft services to pilots. Services include, but are not limited to, the sale of fuel and oil; aircraft sales, rental, maintenance, and repair; parking and tie-down or storage of aircraft; flight training; air taxi/charter operations; and specialty services, such as instrument and avionics maintenance, painting, overhaul, aerial application, aerial photography, aerial hoists, or pipeline patrol. TAC Air, a division of Texas-based Truman Arnold Companies (TAC), under contract to the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport Authority, provides parking space for transient aircraft, aircraft storage and tiedowns, aircraft fueling, aircraft rental, and minimal air cargo services. Currently, the FBO operates out of two conventional hangars, located north and south of the commercial passenger terminal, referred to as TAC Air North and TAC Air South, respectively. These hangars are used for offices, pilots lounges, lobbies, conference rooms, and the storage of aircraft. TAC Air is the only FBO on the airfield, and they operate 23 T-hangars, which they lease to aircraft owners. TAC Air leases buildings, numbered 19 and 21, which are sub-leased to Star Avionics, and building number 10, which is used for storage. TAC Air operates the fuel farm and their airfield crew fuel most of the GA aircraft that use the Airport. The fuel farm consists of two 15,000-gallon storage tanks and two 20,000-gallon storage tanks, all of which store Jet A fuel and are above ground. There is one underground 15,000-gallon

Existing Conditions

2-14

FINAL REPORT


storage tank, which is used for Avgas. Approximately 262,000 gallons of Jet A fuel are dispensed each month and 12,000 gallons of Avgas are dispensed each month. 2.5.2

Other General Aviation Facilities

Additional general aviation facilities located at the Airport include maintenance facilities, forestry service facilities, and corporate hangars. Star Avionics at the south end of the airfield performs general aviation maintenance at the Airport. Star Avionics performs airframe and power plant maintenance, as well as conducts avionics sales, installation, and repair. Directly to the north of the Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) facilities is located the fire fighting wing of the United States Forestry Service. The facility includes administration buildings and apron areas to serve fire-fighting aircraft. Several corporate hangars are located around the airfield including those associated with TAC Air. There is a privately owned hangar located at the extreme northwest corner of the airfield. East of this hangar is a second, privately owned hangar with associated fuel tanks and apron areas. Several private companies occupy this hangar.

2.6

CARGO FACILITIES

The cargo facilities at Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport include those facilities dedicated to allcargo operators, belly cargo operators, and integrated carriers. All-cargo facilities typically include an aircraft-parking apron dedicated to the loading and unloading of aircraft. Belly cargo represents cargo transported on board air carrier passenger aircraft, while integrated carriers refer to companies such as FedEx, UPS, and DHL that provide door–to-door freight transfer via ground and air. Currently, there are two facilities on the Airport just west of the Air traffic Control Tower (ATCT) that cargo operators use as shown in Figure 2-1. The two buildings total 22,400 square feet and provide the necessary facilities for Mountain Air Cargo (FedEx) and ABX Air.

2.7

SUPPORT FACILITIES

Support facilities at an airport exist to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the airport. At Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport, this encompasses a broad set of facilities including:     2.7.1

The ATCT The ARFF facility Airport maintenance facilities Utilities Air Traffic Control Tower

The FAA’s ATCT is a 111-foot structure located east of the cargo area on the southeast portion of the airfield. The ATCT, built in 1983, is in operation from 6:00 AM to 11:50 PM EST. The facility is served by an Airport Surveillance Radar (ASR) and provides Air Traffic Control (ATC) services to those aircraft approaching, departing, and traversing the Airport’s Class C airspace.

Existing Conditions

2-15

FINAL REPORT


2.7.2

Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Facility

Air carrier airports are required under 14 CFR Part 139 to provide aircraft rescue and firefighting services. The Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) facility crew conducts firefighting operations and fire prevention services. More specifically, the ARFF provides emergency assistance; inspection of fuel farms, fuel trucks, and commercial sites; and guidance regarding compliance of FAA standards on safety, equipment, and training. The ARFF Station at Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport is located on the west side of the airfield off Taxiway H. The building contains equipment bays, office space, a watch/alarm room, and dormitory facilities. The Airport employs nine full time fire fighters and one fire chief. Two to three of these personnel are on duty at all times. Based on the 14 CFR Part 139 Section 315 regulations, air carrier airports are assigned an index group based on the length of the longest air carrier aircraft that uses the airport regularly. The Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport must maintain vehicles, chemicals, and response items in accordance with Index B requirements. The vehicles currently in operation at the ARFF station are listed in Table 2-3. Table 2-3 AIRPORT-OWNED ARFF AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE EQUIPMENT Vehicle Manufacturer Oshkosh Striker Titan Ford (Rapid Response Vehicle)

Water Foam Dry Chemical (Gallons) (Gallons) (lbs.) 1,500 205 500 1,500 205 500 Numerous fire extinguishers and other equipment

Source: Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport, 2007

Figure 2-8 ARFF FACILITY

Existing Conditions

2-16

FINAL REPORT


2.7.3

Airport Maintenance Facilities

The Airport owns and operates a variety of maintenance equipment used for snow removal, ground maintenance, pavement and facilities maintenance, and other activities. Maintenance vehicles and equipment are generally housed in two buildings on the southeast portion of the airfield adjacent to the cargo facilities. The larger of the two buildings measures approximately 9,700 square feet, while the smaller facility has approximately 1,600 square feet. 2.7.4

Utilities

The availability of electric power, gas, water, and sewer lines to an airport must be considered in evaluating the existing utility conditions. The public water distribution and sanitary sewage system are significant governmental responsibilities and capital investments. Natural gas and electricity are normally provided by the private sector in most areas, but can also be government responsibilities. Water and Sanitary Sewer Tennessee American Water provides water and sewer service. Both systems are served by a 12inch steel main line. Natural Gas Natural gas is provided to the Airport by Chattanooga Gas via a four-inch line located on the west side of the airfield and a 2½ - inch line located on the east side of the airfield. Natural gas is used for heating facilities around the airfield. Electricity Electricity is provided by the Electric Power Board via a 2000 and 3000 AMP feed which break down to 220V and 440V feeds. This electrical power source serves all of the Airport’s facilities including airfield lighting and NAVAID equipment.

2.8

REGIONAL SETTING AND LAND USE

Airport environmental and land use inventory items are provided in this section. The two sections discuss first, airport land use, and second, airport height zoning. 2.8.1

Airport Land Use

It is important to understand the land use patterns around the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport in order to determine possible impacts to surrounding areas because of future airport development. Both existing and future land uses as anticipated by the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Regional Planning Agency (CHCRPA) are provided in this section. The existing land use and zoning for the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport is designated as Transportation by the CHCRPA. This is shown in Figure 2-9. The existing land use surrounding the Airport mostly encompasses recreational use to the west of the Airport. Commercial, residential, industrial and vacant land uses make up the majority of the land to the east and south

Existing Conditions

2-17

FINAL REPORT


of the Airport. Industrial land uses comprise most of the land to the north of the Airport. All of these land uses are believed compatible with the Airport. The proposed land-uses changes to area adjacent to the Airport are shown in Figure 2-10. Where the areas in Figure 2-10 are white, it indicates that the land-use is not proposed to change from the existing. The land use of areas to the north and east of the Airport are proposed to become future industrial areas, while land use to the south and west of the Airport are not expected to change in the future. Areas to the east of the Airport are proposed to become commercial. These future land uses are compatible with Airport operations.

Existing Conditions

2-18

FINAL REPORT


Figure 2-9 EXISTING LAND USE

Existing Conditions

2-19

FINAL REPORT


Figure 2-10 FUTURE LAND-USE CHANGES

Existing Conditions

2-20

FINAL REPORT


2.8.2

Airport Height Zoning Restrictions

All airports have a three-dimensional system of imaginary surfaces that identifies each airport’s navigable airspace requirements as dictated by Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) Part 77. FAR Part 77 establishes standards for determining obstructions and publishes the design criteria for use in constructing the imaginary surfaces profile for each specific airport. The surfaces represent an imaginary “bowl” of airspace centered on the airport with long approach surfaces extending up and outward from each runway end. These imaginary surfaces surrounding the airport are also used to analyze all existing, future and proposed tall structure construction as to their potential for creating a hazard for aircraft operating at the airport. If a natural object (i.e. a tree) penetrates into these surfaces, then it is recommended to be removed or modified. If the structure or obstacle penetrating the imaginary surfaces as defined by FAR Part 77 cannot be easily removed or modified, the FAA may extend a waiver and the structure will need to be identified by either painting, installing an obstruction light, or both. The airport’s visibility approach minimums may also be impacted (i.e. increased) due to any penetrations to the FAR Part 77 surfaces. The Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport has the imaginary surfaces mandated by FAR Part 77. These are codified in the Airport Zoning Ordinance of the City of Chattanooga, which defines the imaginary surfaces, the procedures for removal or marking of objects that penetrate the surfaces, and the penalties associated with the violation of the surfaces.

2.9

ENVIRONMENTAL OVERVIEW

Future development plans at Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport should take into consideration those environmental issues that are known to exist near the Airport. Early identification of such environmental factors will greatly influence the evaluation of proposed alternatives and will assist in avoiding or reducing the impact to these areas while planning the future development. 2.9.1

Floodplains

Consideration should be given to the location of the floodplains near the Airport when planning future development. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has mapped the floodplains located on and around the Airport. The maps depict Special Flood Hazard Areas inundated by a 100-year flood as well as other flood areas, as shown in Figure 2-11. A significant amount of area in and around the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport is located within the 100-year floodplain. 2.9.2

Wetlands

Future alternatives should also consider the location of wetland areas. The National Wetlands Inventory maintains a database of wetland areas at or near the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport. Figure 2-12 depicts wetland areas on and surrounding the Airport. These wetland areas primarily consist of those associated with the South Chickamauga Creek to the west of the Airport.

Existing Conditions

2-21

FINAL REPORT


Source: Federal Emergency Management Agency, 2007

Figure 2-11 FLOODPLAIN MAP

Existing Conditions

2-22

FINAL REPORT


Figure 2-12 WETLANDS MAP

Existing Conditions

2-23

FINAL REPORT



CHAPTER 3 AVIATION FORECASTS 3.1

INTRODUCTION

Aviation forecasts for the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport are presented in this chapter for the 20year planning period (2007-2027). Forecasts of aviation demand provide a basis for determining the type, size, and timing of aviation facility development. Consequently, the forecasts influence virtually all phases of the planning process. Forecasting future activity involves both analytical techniques and subjective considerations. Regardless of the methodology used, assumptions must be made about how internal and external forces might change in the future. Factors that can influence aviation activity levels include regulatory policy on the local and national level, technological innovations, aviation industry trends, and local fluctuations in population, employment, and per capita personal income. The objective of forecasting is to develop a realistic measure of the potential for these changes so their effect can be estimated in a rational manner and preparations can be made to smoothly and cost effectively accommodate their impact on airport facilities. The development of aviation demand forecasts for the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport is presented in the following sections of this chapter:         

Historical Activity Review Factors Affecting Future Aviation Demand Enplaned Passenger Forecast Air Cargo Based Aircraft Forecast Aircraft Operations Forecast Design Day/Design Hour Activity Forecast Comparison with the FAA Terminal Area Forecasts Summary of Forecasts

The forecasts provide activity levels for five, 10, 15, and 20-year estimates of future aviation activity at the Airport. The association of activity levels with specific periods is necessary in order to develop a schedule of improvement needs and assess the ability of the Airport to finance the recommended development plan. It is important however, to view the projections independent of specific years, and use the projections to identify trigger points for future Airport facilities. If actual growth occurs faster than anticipated, the implementation schedule should be reassessed and accelerated as necessary. Similarly, slower than projected growth may warrant deferment of planned improvements to a later date. Actual activity growth should be frequently compared to projected growth so implementation schedule corrections can be identified and implemented.

3.2

HISTORICAL ACTIVITY REVIEW

This section presents a general overview of commercial service airports in the region followed by a brief review of long-term historical trends in various elements of aviation activity at the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport. Elements reviewed included airlines serving the Airport, annual enplaned passengers, and annual aircraft operations.

Aviation Forecasts

3-1

FINAL REPORT


3.2.1

Regional Commercial Service Airports

The Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport is classified as a non-hub, commercial service airport by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA’s definition of a hub is not to be confused with the designation of a city/airport used by an airline where flights are concentrated in a hub-and-spoke operating concept. The FAA definitions are important because federal Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funding is dependent, in part, upon hub classification. The FAA hub classifications are based on the percentage of enplanements at an airport compared to the total number of enplanements in the United States. These percentages are as follows:    

Large Hub (L) – Enplanes more than 1.0 percent of the nation’s enplaned passengers Medium Hub (M) – Enplanes less than 1.0 percent but greater than 0.5 percent Small Hub (S) – Enplanes less than 0.5 percent but greater than 0.25 percent Non-Hub (N) – Enplanes less than 0.25 percent

In 2007, the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport was ranked 150th busiest airport in the nation, up eight points from the CY 2006 ranking of 158. It is the 11th largest of the 240 non-hub airports, and it is the fourth busiest commercial service airport in Tennessee as shown in Table 3-1. Table 3-1 TENNESSEE AND GEORGIA COMMERCIAL AIRPORT RANKINGS Hub Size L M M S S N N N N N N N N N N

National Rank 1 36 42 90 93 150 172 195 266 291 284 325 385 440 707

Airport Name Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Memphis International Nashville International Savannah/Hilton Head International McGhee Tyson Lovell Field Tri-Cities Regional TN/VA Augusta Regional at Bush Field Columbus Metropolitan Valdosta Regional Southwest Georgia Regional Brunswick Golden Isles Middle Georgia Regional Athens/Ben Epps McKellar-Sipes Total ALL US Airports CY 2007

Aviation Forecasts

City Atlanta Memphis Nashville Savannah Knoxville Chattanooga Bristol/Johnson/Kingsport Augusta Columbus Valdosta Albany Brunswick Macon Athens Jackson

3-2

State GA TN TN GA TN TN TN GA GA GA GA GA GA GA TN

CY 2007 ACAIS Data Annual Percent Enplanements of Total 43,236,992 5.7% 5,546,309 0.73% 4,888,123 0.64% 992,569 0.13% 889,106 0.12% 301,830 0.04% 212,845 0.03% 154,521 0.02% 46,982 0.01% 35,093