Craig Hlavaty HOUSTON CHRONICLE (TX)
Houston's Boom Brings Expansion To Airport Near Katy
April 25, 2013
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  • Houston’s booming economy is bringing Houston Executive Airport out in Brookshire to make some bold expansions to facilities west of Houston.

    A larger arrival canopy and a 22,500 square foot terminal are set to open in May, with a price tag of around $5 million, according to Airport Executive Director Andy Perry. The changes were originally set to become operational in February but the project took longer than expected, said Perry. A key advantage to the airport is, of course, its close proximity to Houston’s energy corridor, and the fact that wait times are minimal in comparison to Hobby Airport and Bush Intercontinental farther north. Simply put, it is easier to jet out of town here than at the other two, especially for private flights, which are integral to big business.

    Perry noted that Weatherford and Goya are both constructing warehouses and distribution centers nearby.

    The expansion of the 6,600 foot runway and the construction of additional hangars is now underway. Nearby Grand Parkway is being expanded to Highway 290, only further helping the airport.

    The airport also practices a “fly quiet program” which lessens the disturbance to the local residents. “The pilots are asked to follow certain procedures, like staying away from neighborhoods and keeping aircraft at certain altitudes,” says Perry. “We operate 24-7,” added Perry.

    In the past year alone, the airport has increased hangar space to 122,000 square feet and office space is available for commercial pilots and aviation companies that do business there. There are conference rooms for business people to have meetings if needed.

    The airport, which sits on 1,980 acres, was founded in 2007 by Houston businessman Ron Henriksen, who also funded the opening of the Austin Executive Airport in 2011, located in Pflugerville.

    http://www.chron.com/news/houston-texas/houston/article/Houston-s-boom-brings-expansion-to-airport-near-4463625.php