Officials now hope to have the equipment up and running next week
(Aspen, CO)The Federal Aviation Administration has notified local airport officials and pilots that it will not get the new Localizer Directional Antenna (LDA) up and running by today as was hoped. FAA officials say it could be mid-week next week before the equipment has been tested and is operational. Among the unanticipated setbacks FAA officials have faced during the project was interference from a nearby Holy Cross power line. The power line has since been relocated. FAA aircraft will be checking the signal again Saturday and working through the weekend to get the new system operational as soon as possible.
The FAA’s replacement of this critical piece of air navigational equipment on top of Aspen Mountain began October 8th forcing the shutdown of equipment that guides pilots when they are on a conventional instrument approach to the airport. The shutdown has caused numerous delays and cancellations and inconvenienced travelers.
“We continue to support the FAA in getting this critical work done,” said Aspen/Pitkin County Airport Director, Jim Elwood. “We sincerely regret the inconvenience this has caused. We’re told it’s a number one priority for the FAA and has their full attention,” Elwood said.
There are two localizer antennae serving the Aspen/Pitkin County Airport. One is located on the south end of the runway. The other is located on top of Aspen Mountain.