The master plan update is funded through grants from both federal and state agencies as well as a local match from the Airport. The FAA is contributing 90 percent of the funding, FDOT 8 percent, and the Airport the remaining 2 percent.
Can you describe the master plan process components in more detail?
Existing Conditions Inventory: Data collection of airport facilities, infrastructure assets, and conditions. Forecast Update: Development of an aviation forecast, typically out 20 years, to project the future growth of an airport’s level of aviation demand. Demand/Capacity Analysis and Facility Requirements: Analysis of the capacities of the existing facilities inventoried relative to the projected future demand. Alternatives Development and Evaluation: Development of concepts for future airport enhancement and improvement. Environmental Overview: Preliminary review of potential environmental features and resources that could impact the recommended airport development plan. Implementation Plan: Preparation of a development schedule and phasing plan or project sequencing for the recommended development plan. Financial Feasibility Analysis: Preparation of a financial plan and funding resources. Airport Layout Plan Update: Incorporation of the final airport development plan into a set of FAA/FDOT required airport drawing documents. Exhibit ‘A’ Airport Property Inventory Maps: A series of maps and tables that provide history and documentation for the airport’s property. Documentation: Production of a technical report that summarizes the results of master planning process. Stakeholder and Public Involvement: Provides for public engagement opportunities and meetings with TAC to provide technical expertise throughout the master plan process.
How long will the master plan update take?
A master plan for an airport like DeLand Municipal can take anywhere from 12 to 18 months. There are many factors that can affect the schedule and are difficult to quantify, like regulatory agency review periods.
Is an airport required to prepare a master plan?
No, an airport master plan is not a requirement set forth by the FAA or FDOT; however, the airport master plan study is considered the most prudent process for developing an ALP, which is a requirement of the FAA and FDOT through grant assurances (specifically FAA grant assurance 29).
What are grant assurances?
When airports accept funds from regulatory agencies for the development of assets, they must agree to various assurances (obligations). Information on FAA grant assurances can be found here.
Is a runway extension planned in this master plan update?
At this time, a runway extension is not planned; however, we are in the very early stages of the master plan and must follow the process to determine if there are any deficiencies or needs.
What are aviation activity forecasts?
An aviation activity forecast is a projection of future levels of activity that are projected to occur at the airport for a predetermined period of time, typically 20 years. For master planning purposes at an airport like DeLand Municipal, the aviation activity forecasts typically include based aircraft, the fleet mix, and aircraft operations.
How are the forecasts prepared and why are they important?
Forecasts of aviation activity are prepared based on a review of historical trends and using various modeling techniques and professional judgment. Activity forecasts are important because as a public use airport DED must be able to meet customer needs in the future, providing the right types and levels of facilities as appropriate. The master plan uses these forecasts to establish the timing and need for development of future facilities.
What is an Airport Layout Plan (ALP)?
An Airport Layout Plan (ALP) is a scaled, graphical presentation of the existing and future airport facilities. In order to be eligible for federal and state funding, an up-to-date ALP must be approved by the FAA and the state.