Propeller ‘Pleased By’ Parts of Airport Study

Propeller Airports is “pleased by and agrees with many of the conclusions in a report issued by Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (HJAIA) last week,” according to a statement issued May 23.

The HJAIA study, financed primarily by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), in the metro Atlanta area.

, released a statement from Propeller claiming the study confirmed the company’s assessment of Briscoe Field and its potential to serve passengers and “generate significant economic developments.”

Propeller believes the study shows Briscoe Field meets key criteria including airfield, approach, runway, airspace and market size.

“The report also determined that no residential properties would be affected by noise due to adding passenger service. It also states that Briscoe Field is not suited for a 9,000-foot runway, which is unnecessary for a smaller regional airport,” the release states.

Propeller did take issue with the report findings regarding the overall cost benefit analysis and facilities needed for the metro Atlanta market.

“Based on regional demographics, a ten gate facility is more than adequate to handle the anticipated passenger traffic,” according to the company. “Therefore, in Propeller’s view, to spend $2.25 billion of taxpayer funds to construct a facility envisioned by the study would be impractical considering the market size.”

Propeller denied considering facilities comparable in size to those mentioned in the study.

“The study uses a ‘one size fits all’ template, which is not practical for developing an economically viable solution for the community,” the release states.

Citing the current economic environment, Propeller insists a privately financed option sanctioned by the FAA must be considered.

The press release concluded with a statement of support for the : “Propeller looks forward to providing a unique proposal in response to Gwinnett County's Request for Proposals and applauds the Board of Commissioners for properly vetting this substantial opportunity for the entire County.”