Airport Improvements

Laurel Airport Authority Receives $2.4 Million FAA Grants for Runway Safety Area Improvements Project

The Laurel Airport Authority is pleased to announce it has been awarded $2.4 million in grants from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to fund vital safety area improvements and infrastructure upgrades on its runway.

The funding is provided through the combined FAA Airport Improvement Program (AIP) and Airport Infrastructure Grant (AIG). These grants invest in planning and development of public airports and aviation infrastructure like runways, taxiways, lighting, and markings for safety improvements.

This project will rehabilitate and extend the south end of Runway 31 adding an additional 300 feet to the existing runway and taxiway. This will result in a total runway length of 5,814 feetwhen completed. In addition to improvements to the runway, the south end of Hillcrest Drive will be redirected straight to the Hwy 11 red light. This relocation is necessary to allow room for the extension of the runway and other safety area improvements. The work is scheduled to begin on September 8, 2026, and expected to be completed by late May 2027.

“This federal investment ensures our airport remains a safe, reliable, and efficient facility for our local pilots, industries, and those who utilize our aviation services,” said Donna Black, Manager, Laurel Airport & Industrial Park. “Upgrading our runway infrastructure supports general aviation, offers additional runway length for our corporate pilots and keeps our local airportviable and safe for years to come.”

The improvements continue to bring Hesler-Noble Field into full alignment with current FAA safety standards. Minimal disruption to local flight operations is anticipated during construction, and local notices to air missions (NOTAMs) will be issued prior to active work phases. There will be runway closures starting September 8 from 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM on weekdays for 60-90 days, pending any weather or construction delays. Hillcrest Drive will occasionally be impacted over the duration of the project, but traffic will be redirected as needed.