New Runway Hopes To Help Business Take Off

A newly renovated air strip could help propel Las Cruces toward an economic boost. It’s the newest runway in the state, and one pilot hopes it will pave the way for new business.

“It’s just an exceptional benefit for the city and for the airport,” explained Doug Newton, with Adventure Aviation.

The pilot gave ABC-7 an exclusive aerial view of the new 7,500-foot concrete runway. Since it’s not asphalt, the new air strip is supposed to last about 20 years.

It’s built to withstand extreme weather conditions and heavy aircrafts. Quite a difference from the old runway, which was cracking and deteriorating.

“We called it the carnival ride because it was so bumpy,” said Lisa Murphy, Las Cruces International Airport manager.

Now, after a little more than $11 million worth of repairs, from the federal government, the state and the city, airport officials are ready for business to take off.

Murphy explained, “We want commercial air service and we’re in a much better position to receive it.” She said the runway would be able to support the type of plane Southwest Airlines uses.

“We are pro aviation, pro business and in favor of bringing it to the Las Cruces area,” Newton said. “We’re truly going to be an aerospace center.”

Airport officials said they also want to bring Navy pilots back. They trained at the airport for about six years, but left because of the old runway.