Phoenix Goodyear Airport: A Hub of Aviation Growth and Development

Overview of Phoenix Goodyear Airport

Goodyear, Arizona, is a burgeoning city within the Phoenix metropolitan area, known for its scenic beauty and rapid development. The Phoenix Goodyear Airport, located just two miles from the city’s central business district, was established to meet the increasing demands of this growing region. Originally known as Goodyear Municipal Airport, it has evolved significantly since its inception.

Key Features and Operations

• Total Area: The airport spans 789 acres, making it one of the larger reliever airports in the region compared to those in Glendale and Mesa.
• Elevation: Situated at 295 meters above sea level.
• Runway: It features a single 8,500-foot (approximately 2.5 kilometers) asphalt runway.
• Daily Operations: The airport handles around 500 airway operations daily, predominantly general aviation, with some military and air taxi activities.

Historical Context

Constructed during World War II, the airport initially served as a U.S. Navy air facility. Post-war, it was used to store aircraft until the city of Phoenix acquired it to reduce the operational load on Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Today, it does not serve commercial flights but is utilized for aircraft storage and pilot training.

Aviation Training and Maintenance Facilities

Phoenix Goodyear Airport is a significant center for aviation training and aircraft maintenance, contributing to its reputation as a comprehensive aviation hub.

Training Facilities

• Airline Training Center Arizona (ATCA): This facility is notable for training pilots for Lufthansa, focusing on both general aviation and specific aircraft like the G-120.
• Oxford Aviation Academy: Known for training pilots destined for British and European airlines, adhering strictly to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.

Maintenance Services

• AeroTurbine Inc.: Provides extensive maintenance and storage services for various aircraft, including models like Boeing, DC-9s, and DC-10s.

Impact on Local and Regional Aviation

The strategic location and facilities of Phoenix Goodyear Airport significantly relieve the air traffic pressures on Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, which handles thousands of international and commercial flights daily. By serving as a reliever airport, it plays a vital role in the efficient management of air traffic in the Arizona region.

Aircraft and Operations

• Based Aircraft: Approximately 200 aircraft are based at the airport, with three-quarters being single-engine planes. The remainder includes multi-engine crafts, jet aircraft, and helicopters.

Conclusion

Phoenix Goodyear Airport is more than just a landing strip near a bustling city; it is a cornerstone of regional aviation, supporting essential training, maintenance, and operational needs. Its role in managing air traffic, coupled with its contribution to pilot education and aircraft upkeep, underscores its importance in the broader aviation landscape of Arizona.

For more detailed information on Phoenix Goodyear Airport and its operations, visit the official Phoenix airport page.

For insights into FAA regulations and pilot training standards, check out the Federal Aviation Administration's official site.