New Airport Site Selection Study – Friedman Memorial Airport

Hailey, Idaho

A key issue in this study is whether the current airport site is adequate to accommodate existing and projected demands.  The study recommends that the airport board pursue a new airport as the best way to accommodate existing and projected demands of the Sun Valley market area.  Key issues that are driving this conclusion include:

• Expansion of existing site to accommodate FAA design standards has major adverse impacts on the community
• The current site is in a mountainous environment, which does not allow good opportunities to lower approach minimums, and is an overall safety concern
• Land available for long-term expansion and success is limited

Aside from the technical work that was accomplished, which included coordination with airlines, users, and the FAA, an extensive public information program was implemented.  This included a series of public workshops, public hearings, and public airport board meetings.