Manhattan Airport Advisory Board
February 9, 2026
Board selects phasing plan for Taxiway Alpha reconstruction
Construction slated to complete in single 2027 season
Commercial service secure, but large charters face limits
Airport receives new snow removal vehicle
Enplanement records continue to climb
Freeman Field plans runway update and tree removal
Board selects phasing plan for Taxiway Alpha reconstruction
MANHATTAN, Kan. — The Manhattan Regional Airport Advisory Board advanced a phasing plan known as "Option 2" for the Taxiway Alpha reconstruction, which project managers say will balance costs and maintain access. Olsson project manager Brian Coomes told the board the plan utilizes a temporary asphalt taxi lane to preserve access to the north ramp, a strategy projected to save approximately 30 working days and reduce costs compared to upgrading existing concrete roads.
Construction slated to complete in single 2027 season
MANHATTAN, Kan. — Planners intend to complete the Taxiway Alpha reconstruction within a single season beginning in March 2027 to prevent work from extending into winter. The schedule requires the first phase's completion by mid-June and the second by mid-August, ensuring the runway is fully operational for the start of the academic year and the university's fall football season.
Commercial service secure, but large charters face limits
MANHATTAN, Kan. — Airport officials said scheduled commercial flights will continue uninterrupted during construction because regional jets can back-taxi on the runway, but larger charter aircraft may face restrictions. Officials warned that Boeing 737s, often used for military deployments and university athletic teams, might not have access to turnarounds depending on the active construction phase.
Airport receives new snow removal vehicle
MANHATTAN, Kan. — The airport added a new MB4 multi-function snow removal vehicle to its fleet two weeks ago, equipping staff with a new blower, broom and plow. Crews are currently training on the unit, which staff noted utilizes more electronic components than previous models, to prepare for winter operations.
Enplanement records continue to climb
MANHATTAN, Kan. — The board noted the airport reached a new record for passenger enplanements as growth in the regional market continues. Members credited the collaboration between airport staff and Envoy for maintaining the service levels responsible for the sustained traffic increase.
Freeman Field plans runway update and tree removal
JUNCTION CITY, Kan. — Manhattan Airport Advisory Board member Jim Jacobs reported that Freeman Field is proceeding with tree removal to clear obstructions surrounding the landlocked airport. Jacobs also reported that a planned update to the main runway will permanently reduce its length by approximately 50 feet to comply with Federal Aviation Administration regulations.
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