Tyler Pounds Airport Plans New Control Tower as DFW Parking Costs Rise

Last week we heard that the busiest airport in Texas (DFW) was increasing their cost for parking and that any sort of pickup or drop off of passengers would cost money. Which makes East Texans want to use Tyler Pounds Regional Airport more than ever before. And good news, there are some upgrades coming to the airport closer to home.

Tyler Pounds Plans to Replace Its Aging Control Tower

Tyler Pounds is implementing plans for a new air traffic control tower as work is being done to replace aging infrastructure and prepare the airport for future growth. The current tower is now 78 years old and is where air traffic controllers and Federal Aviation Administration technical operations is done.

The current tower has accessibility challenges, with multiple flights of stairs and no elevator. Also aging mechanical systems have made maintenance more challenging.

READ MORE: DFW Metroplex’s Third Airport Is Expanding

Where Will the New Tyler Airport Tower Be Located?

The airport did a study to find the best placement for a new tower. After evaluating three sites, the new location will be closer to the new terminal. According to CBS 19, A grant from the FAA worth around $766,000 will allow the airport to complete the tower design, and relocation or replacement of technical equipment.

The airport expects the design phase to take about six to nine months before moving into the bidding process. Construction could begin next year if the airport secures the additional funding needed.

Get our free mobile app

Tyler Pounds Also Has an Elevator Project Planned

Another project to replace an aging elevator in the terminal is also in the works. The airport hopes to begin that work within about 60 days to maintain ADA accessibility for its administrative offices.

I’m all for these projects as hopefully we will see more flights out of our East Texas airport. No one wants to drive 2 hours home after a flight landing at DFW.