FAA Scraps Plan To Consolidate TRACON Services In Salt Lake City

The FAA has decided not to move some air traffic controllers currently at the TRACON facility in Boise to Salt Lake City, ending a long-simmering dispute between the agency, NATCA and local officials.

In a news release, Senator Mike Crapo (R-ID) said that during personal telephone calls Tuesday to Idaho Delegation Members and the Mayor of Boise, U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said the department is dropping plans to co-locate the Boise TRACON with Salt Lake City.

The FAA had wanted to move the Boise system because of alleged cost savings, but the Delegation and Mayor had challenged the budget figures and argued that safety and jobs would be best preserved by keeping the existing system in place with the move to a new airport control tower. Secretary Ray LaHood agreed.

“I appreciate speaking with Secretary LaHood today and applaud his decision to maintain a Terminal Approach Radar in Boise,” said Senator Crapo. “This is the best solution in terms of cost and safety for Southwest Idaho air traffic control. Additionally, it will preserve good-paying jobs at the Boise Airport as we build toward future growth and development.”

Senator Crapo

Leaving the TRACON in Boise was the right decision for the FAA to make. From a cost and efficiency standpoint the facts are clear that leaving the radar operation in Boise was the only decision they could make,” said Senator Jim Risch (R-ID).

“I was pleased to speak directly with the Secretary today and am glad that the FAA has made a decision that looks to the best interests of Idahoans and is based on facts instead of best guesses,” said Congressman Mike Simpson (D-ID). “With this decision behind us, I am hopeful that we can look forward to ensuring that the Boise Airport can continue to support economic growth in the Treasure Valley.”

Congressman Simpson

“This is great news for Idaho travelers and for Idaho's economy,” said Congressman Walt Minnick (D-ID). “The decision to keep the TRACON tower at the Boise Airport is not only the most cost-effective solution for taxpayers, but it is also a fitting way to remember and honor the legacy of my friend Ed Stimpson, who was a true leader in aviation safety. Not only will passengers be more certain of safe travel, but the men and women who keep them safe will continue to do their jobs in Idaho and help keep our economy on the road to recovery.”

"This decision is great news for Boise and for every traveler and business that depends on the Boise Airport," Mayor David Bieter (D) said. "By keeping TRACON here, we will preserve high quality local jobs, ensure continued safety and convenience for travelers and protect the airport's position as a major hub for aviation and commerce. I applaud the FAA for keeping this important asset in Boise. This victory is the result of four years of hard work by Idaho's congressional delegation, the late Ed Stimpson, former US Ambassador and Boise Airport Commissioner, and the City of Boise. It's time to celebrate."

Mayor Bieter

The Idaho Statesman reports that Senators Crapo and Risch had attached an amendment to the FAA reauthorization bill that prohibited relocating the Boise TRACON until the FAA's plan to consolidate TRACON facilities nationwide was reviewed by the Air Traffic Modernization Board, and would require the agency to work with NATCA on any ATC relocation plan.

FMI: www.faa.gov