News Summary
Clark County has initiated an environmental review for the proposed Southern Nevada Supplemental Airport (SNSA) to accommodate the growing demand for air travel. As LAS reaches capacity, the FAA’s efforts signal a proactive approach to enhancing regional connectivity. The SNSA site, identified 25 years ago, lies 30 miles south of LAS, and could transform local infrastructure and community development, despite concerns about environmental impacts. Public engagement is part of the plan to ensure community input throughout the review process.
Clark County Advances Environmental Review for Southern Nevada Supplemental Airport Amid Growing Demand for Air Travel
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently conducting an environmental review for a proposed second airport in Clark County, Nevada, as officials anticipate it could be completed by the mid-2030s. This initiative, aimed at addressing the increasing demand for air travel, comes in light of record passenger numbers at the Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), which served 58.4 million passengers in 2024.
In May, the FAA issued a federal notice of intent to prepare an environmental impact study, marking a significant step forward in the planning of the Southern Nevada Supplemental Airport (SNSA). With air traffic at LAS projected to surpass its current capacity in the next decade, the new airport aims to alleviate congestion and accommodate the region’s growing travel needs.
Details of the Proposed Airport
The site for the SNSA was identified 25 years ago and spans over 17,000 acres located about 30 miles south of LAS, near Roach Lake. It is bordered by Interstate 15 on the west and Union Pacific Railroad tracks on the east. The final possession of the site is contingent upon approvals from the FAA and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management.
Officials plan for the SNSA to be integrated into the Clark County aviation system, complementing the existing facilities at LAS. The new airport is expected to prioritize long-haul international flights initially, although the mix of future flights may vary as airline strategies evolve.
Infrastructure and Connectivity
To ensure efficient transportation between the two airports, LAS and SNSA will be linked through designated road and rail routes. Additionally, Clark County plans to manage a 1-mile buffer zone around the new airport site, which may facilitate related infrastructure developments.
Impact on Local Communities and Environment
There is potential for significant development near the new airport, with plans for at least 5,000 acres designated for new commercial and residential projects. However, this raises concerns among conservation groups regarding the environmental impact on local wildlife, particularly endangered species such as the desert tortoise and the white-margined penstemon.
A public engagement strategy is in place to facilitate discussion about the project’s environmental effects. Public scoping meetings are scheduled for July 2025 and will include both virtual and in-person sessions to gather feedback. Individuals can also submit initial comments via the dedicated email address provided by Clark County.
Leadership Transition
The recent developments surrounding the SNSA coincide with the retirement of Rosemary Vassiliadis, the former director of LAS, who had advocated for the second airport for over 25 years. Vassiliadis retired on September 12, and leadership at LAS has since transitioned to James Chrisley, who has been promoted from deputy director.
Timeline for Environmental Review
The environmental impact statement process is expected to span two to three years, during which the FAA will prepare a final decision regarding the airport’s future. This review will play a crucial role in ensuring that the project aligns with environmental standards while addressing critical infrastructure needs in southern Nevada.
The SNSA project represents a proactive approach to managing the growing demand for air travel in Clark County, with the hope of enhancing connectivity and accommodating the needs of a bustling travel market. As the environmental review progresses, stakeholder input and community engagement will be vital in shaping the ultimate vision for the region’s aviation landscape.
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Additional Resources
- Aviation Week: Las Vegas Eyes Second Airport
- Wikipedia: Las Vegas
- KTNV: Ivanpah Airport Expansion Environmental Review
- Google Search: Las Vegas Airport news
- Nevada Current: Environmental Review for Second Major Airport
- Google Scholar: Environmental Impact Airports
- Review Journal: Environmental Review for New Las Vegas Airport
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Airport Environmental Reviews
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