restaurant back—apparently that was the place to be. They wanted to make sure that McAllister Field stayed as part of the name of the airport, and they wanted a flight to Vegas.” While direct Vegas service remains elusive, the airport now offers charter flights to Laughlin, Nevada, addressing at least part of that wish. Construction currently underway includes roof and HVAC system replacement, with a new baggage claim system arriving later this year. Solar canopies will cover parking areas, contributing to sustainability efforts while the terminal undergoes comprehensive renovation.“We have an architect under contract to design the entire terminal modernization program,” says Hodgman.“Next year we’re planning to upgrade our ticketing area as well as our baggage screening and air cargo areas. And then the following year, bringing back the restaurant.” The crosswind runway rehabilitation is another critical upgrade. After years of deterioration threatening closure, the 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act created a new Legacy Crosswind Runway category that Yakima qualifies for. “We have the funds, and we are getting ready to move forward later this year with design for the runway and then construction rehabilitation next year,” Hodgman confirms. The runway serves essential functions for FedEx, UPS, and medical evacuation flights during the valley’s notorious crosswind conditions, making its preservation vital for maintaining the airport’s diverse operational capabilities. SOLVING SEATTLE’S CAPACITY CRISIS With SeaTac Airport handling over 50 million passengers in facilities designed for 30 million, the region faces an aviation infrastructure crisis. A state commission spent three and a half years searching for solutions, ultimately finding no viable sites for new airports or expansions in Western Washington. “When you have a significant capacity shortfall and an estimated continued demand, how do you solve that?” Hodgman asks.“The obvious conclusion 5 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 07 YAKIMA AIR TERMINAL-MCALLISTER FIELD
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