The Strategic Role of Phoenix Goodyear Airport in Arizona's Aviation Landscape

Overview of Phoenix Goodyear Airport

Phoenix Goodyear Airport, initially known as Goodyear Municipal Airport, is located approximately two miles from the central business district of Goodyear, Arizona. This public airport, owned by the City of Phoenix, spans an impressive 789 acres, making it one of the larger reliever airports in the region compared to its counterparts in Glendale and Mesa.

Key Features and Operations:

• Elevation: 295 meters above sea level
• Runway: One asphalt-paved runway, 8,500 feet in length
• Daily Operations: Approximately 500, primarily general aviation, with some military and air taxi activities

The airport was constructed during World War II to support the U.S. Navy and has evolved significantly since. Post-war, it served as a storage site for aircraft before being repurposed to alleviate congestion at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Today, it does not handle commercial flights but focuses on aircraft storage and pilot training.

Economic and Strategic Importance

Phoenix Goodyear Airport is not just a facility for aircraft operations; it is a vital economic engine for the local community. According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, general aviation airports like Phoenix Goodyear contribute significantly to the state's economy, with the aviation sector bringing billions annually.

Contributions to Local Economy:

• Aircraft Storage: Houses 200 aircraft, predominantly single-engine
• Maintenance and Fueling Services: Provided by companies such as AeroTurbine Inc., which handles various aircraft including Boeing and DC models
• Pilot Training: Home to the Airline Training Center Arizona, where Lufthansa among other airlines, trains its pilots. The presence of Oxford Aviation Academy also underscores the airport’s role in international aviation training.

Educational and Training Hub

Phoenix Goodyear Airport is renowned for its comprehensive pilot training facilities. It adheres to stringent Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, ensuring high standards of training provided by resident academies.

Training Facilities:

• Airline Training Center Arizona: Specializes in training pilots for German airline Lufthansa, using G-120 aircraft among others.
• Oxford Aviation Academy: Focuses on preparing pilots for British and European airlines.

These facilities not only enhance the skills of future pilots but also boost the local job market by creating demand for aviation instructors and support staff.

Conclusion

Phoenix Goodyear Airport is more than just an air traffic reliever for Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. It is a cornerstone of local economic development, a center for aviation training excellence, and a historical asset with a legacy tied to America’s wartime aviation efforts. As Goodyear and the surrounding region continue to grow, the strategic importance of this airport is set to increase, further integrating it into the broader narrative of Arizona’s aviation history and economic development.

For more detailed information on Phoenix Goodyear Airport and its operations, visit the City of Phoenix official website or the Federal Aviation Administration for regulations and aviation data.