Pangborn runway to close for a month for repair; airport will remain open

EAST WENATCHEE — Pangborn Memorial Airport is set to undergo a significant runway rehabilitation project, necessitating a 31-day closure of its runway from 6:00 a.m. September 2 to 11:59 p.m. October 3. This closure is vital for implementing critical improvements that will safeguard and enhance this crucial regional asset.

Fixed-wing aircraft operations will be paused, but helicopter operations will continue uninterrupted throughout the project's duration. General Aviation (GA) pilots are advised to use alternative nearby airports during this period, including Lake Chelan (S10), Waterville (2S5), Mansfield (8W3), Ephrata (EPH), and Quincy Municipal (80T) airports.

The comprehensive runway rehabilitation project includes:

• Full-depth milling and replacement of existing runway asphalt
• Installation of a new storm drainage system
• Improvements to signage along the airfield
• Addition of a new four-unit precision approach path indicator on Runway 30
• Installation of a new rotating beacon
• Replacement of taxiway edge lights with higher-visibility LED lighting

Jim Huffman, Board President of the Chelan Douglas Regional Port Authority, acknowledged the potential short-term challenges this closure might bring. “However,” he said, “this project represents a major investment in the future of Pangborn Memorial Airport. By taking this step now, we’re ensuring the long-term safety, reliability, and operational excellence of our runway for years to come.”

The total cost for this project is estimated at approximately $20 million. The Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program (AIP) will cover 95% of the funding, with the remaining portion sourced from local matching funds provided by the Chelan Douglas Regional Port Authority.

For further inquiries or additional information, please contact Trent Moyers, Director of Airports, at trent@cdrpa.org or by phone at (509) 663-5159.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media