Waco Regional Airport
An Economic Engine in Full Gear
Taking off with its services, community engagement and infrastructure upgrades to become a critical economic driver in the region
Waco Regional Airport plays a pivotal role in connecting Central Texas to larger cities, offering an efficient alternative to major hubs in Dallas and Austin. Located just five miles northwest of downtown Waco, the airport spans over 1,300 acres and features two asphalt runways. Originally established during World War II as a military training site, the facility has since evolved into a modern regional airport.
As a FAR Part 139 certificated airport, Waco Regional is served by American Airlines through SkyWest, operating three daily flights using CRJ-700 aircraft. However, its operations extend well beyond commercial flights.
Waco Regional Airport is home to multiple aviation-focused businesses, offering a wide range of services to the aviation community. From maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations to professional flight training programs, Waco Regional provides services that impact aviation users all over the world.
Waco Regional’s strategic location makes it a key stop for cross-country flights, particularly for military operations. The airport offers both an Instrument Landing System (ILS) and a control tower, reducing congestion compared to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex or other airports further south toward Austin.
Texas Aero takes the lead regarding Fixed Base Operator (FBO) services. Waco Regional does not operate the FBO; Texas Aero, a private business, manages those services. The partnership with Texas Aero is robust and mutually beneficial. A notable example of this collaboration is the implementation of UL94 unleaded aviation fuel.
Texas Aero, a private Fixed Base Operator (FBO), provides essential services to the airport’s clients. As part of a collaborative partnership, Texas Aero converted one of its smaller tanks to offer UL94 unleaded aviation fuel, making Waco one of the few airports in the region to offer this environmentally friendly option.
Engaging the Next Generation
Mindful of recent pilot shortages, Waco Regional is committed to highlighting educational outreach efforts. The airport hosts field trips for students from elementary through college, giving them hands-on experience with aviation. These tours include visits to the control tower and flight schools and even the opportunity to try out simulators, fostering interest in aviation careers.
Though a small team of seven city employees manages the airport, they maintain close relationships with local high schools and Texas State Technical College to promote job opportunities, especially in fields like A&P mechanics.
Strategic Upgrades and Future Plans
The airport’s commitment to modernizing its infrastructure is evident in its recent and upcoming projects. In December 2023, a terminal building remodel was completed to improve the passenger experience. Following that, a contract was awarded in June 2024 to reconstruct sections of the air carrier apron.
In addition to these visible upgrades, Waco Regional also updated its pavement management plan. The plan is updated periodically and consists of an in-depth evaluation of all paved surfaces. This evaluation allows the airport to plan, design, and fund projects in collaboration with the FAA. Meanwhile, the first phase of an airfield drainage project is nearly complete, with full completion expected by October 2024, despite weather-related delays.
Energy efficiency has also been a focus, with the airport upgrading its terminal lighting to LED and installing modern HVAC systems, reducing energy consumption and operational costs.
Collaborations for Growth
Waco Regional Airport continues to expand its reach through strategic collaborations with various organizations. A key focus has been working closely with the airport’s tourism team to sustain and enhance air service. This has led to the formation of an ad hoc air service development committee, which brings together stakeholders from chambers of commerce and higher education institutions. With Baylor University and one of Texas’ largest community colleges located in the region, the airport benefits from these academic resources by collecting and presenting data that supports its plans for future growth.
Beyond its relationships with on-field commercial businesses, the airport takes a proactive role in fostering business retention and expansion (BRE). Waco Regional goes beyond a typical landlord-tenant arrangement by conducting annual visits with these businesses. These sessions, organized in cooperation with the Chamber of Commerce, the city’s economic development team, and local officials, are designed to assess the growth, stability, and future needs of each business.
Strategic Priorities for the Future
Waco Regional Airport’s future is bright, with several projects on the horizon. City management is collaborating with the Federal Aviation Administration and local legislative partners to assess the feasibility of each initiative, recognizing that these projects are complex and may take five to ten years from conception to completion.
The airport is committed to continuing to work with key stakeholders to support these initiatives, bringing together key stakeholders from the community. This collaborative effort will focus on leveraging the new terminal building and enhancing the airport’s role as a central hub for regional travel, ensuring that Waco Regional remains a preferred choice for travelers in the area.
In addition, the airport is planning for future projects, such as the rehabilitation of Runway 1/19, guided by the latest pavement management plan. This process will evaluate the necessary scope of rehabilitation and enable effective planning. This significant project will ensure the ongoing integrity and safety of the runway infrastructure.
Through these strategic priorities, Waco Regional Airport is well-positioned for future growth and development, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing services and expanding its impact on the regional economy.
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AT A GLANCE
Waco Regional Airport
What: Regional airport providing commercial, general aviation, and military services
Where: Waco, Texas
Website: https://www.waco-texas.com/Airport
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