Planning is underway for a potential second airport in Las Vegas as the current Harry Reid International Airport faces challenges with increased tourism and limited space for expansion. Reid Airport, which is 76 years old, is the seventh-busiest airport in North America and has seen record-setting passenger numbers in recent years. With the continuous growth in passenger traffic, airport officials are concerned about potential delays in the future.
The Clark County Department of Aviation is exploring the possibility of building a new airport in the Ivanpah Valley, located 30 miles south of Reid Airport. The Ivanpah project, known as the Southern Nevada Supplemental Airport, has been in the works for over two decades but has faced delays due to economic downturns and declining visitation to Las Vegas. However, recent legislation has paved the way for the development of the new airport, with a projected completion date of 2037.
In the meantime, efforts are being made to maximize the use of Reid Airport’s existing space. The aviation department is working on improving runway use, air traffic control procedures, and exploring options to enhance efficiency at the airport. Furthermore, plans are in place to expand Terminal 1 and utilize unused land to accommodate the growing demand for air travel.
Major airlines like Southwest and Spirit Airlines, which are key players at Reid Airport, are also involved in discussions regarding the airport’s expansion. As larger aircraft are being used and passenger numbers continue to rise, there is a need to address the capacity constraints at the current airport. Building a second airport is seen as a long-term solution to ensure the continued growth and success of the Las Vegas tourism industry.
The aviation department acknowledges the urgency of the situation and is working towards finding viable solutions to meet the increasing demand for air travel. With ongoing developments in the aviation industry and the rise of private jet services, the need for additional airport infrastructure in Las Vegas has become more pressing than ever. As the city continues to attract visitors from around the world, ensuring efficient air travel facilities is crucial for sustaining the growth of the tourism sector.
