Falcon Field Airport in Mesa has a new Taxiway G, an addition that is to streamline routing of aircraft from the north runway to southern airport facilities.

The primary objective is to reduce the amount of time aircraft spend on the airport’s runway, thus minimizing delays and reducing fuel consumption, according to a release.

“The completion of Taxiway G is an exciting milestone for Falcon Field Airport and the city of Mesa,” Mesa Mayor John Giles said in the release. “This project not only enhances the efficiency and safety of our airport operations but also reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting aviation growth and innovation in Mesa.”

The project is part of Falcon Field’s capital improvement program and aligns with the airport’s master plan, which was approved by the Mesa City Council in July 2019. The new taxiway is to accommodate the airport’s anticipated growth.

“This new infrastructure will support the airport’s growth as a key asset to Mesa's economy. We are committed to ensuring Falcon Field remains a premier aviation hub,” Mesa District 5 City Councilmember Alicia Goforth said.

“The city of Mesa is proud to have successfully completed this vital infrastructure project in cooperation with the FAA and ADOT,” Airport Director Corinne Nystrom said. “This greatly supports the Airport’s vision to be recognized as a premier location for aviation customers seeking a high-quality airport operating environment in which to thrive and grow.”

Construction of Taxiway G was part of a two-part project. The second phase involved the realignment of two other taxiways (Taxiways D7 and D8) to follow updated safety standards prescribed by the FAA. The project commenced on Jan. 7 and was substantially completed July 3, with a soft opening on July 4. A hydroseed application and a runway guard light fixture were completed by Oct. 15 to make the new taxiway fully operable.

Woolpert Inc. served as the design consultant while also ensuring the project’s success through their construction management services. The construction work was executed by Banicki Construction.

Total cost of the project is $4,137,534, with financial support from the Federal Aviation Administration and the Arizona Department of Transportation. The FAA contributed $3,767,638 and ADOT provided a grant of $184,948. The city of Mesa’s contribution to the project was $184,948.

Falcon Field includes a total of 784 acres between Greenfield, Higley, McDowell and McKellips roads in northeast Mesa. There are currently more than 800 aircraft based at Falcon Field. This includes fixed-wing single- and multi-engine aircraft, turboprops, jets and helicopters, according to https://www.falconfieldairport.com.

For information about Falcon Field Airport and its ongoing projects go to https://www.falconfieldairport.com/about-us/capital-improvement-program