The University of Oklahoma marked a milestone for Oklahoma aviation on Friday with the dedication of a brand‑new air traffic control tower at Max Westheimer Airport. The six‑story, 106‑foot structure replaces the aging facility and adds modern technology to keep the busy airfield safe for the state’s expanding aerospace sector.
Funding and purpose
The $17.2 million tower was financed through a partnership of federal, state and local resources. The Federal Aviation Administration, Congress, the State of Oklahoma and the university all contributed to the project, reflecting a shared commitment to aviation safety and economic growth.
“We know that aerospace is the second‑largest industry in Oklahoma, so why don’t we make this airport a critical part of our state and honor the past with it,” said Joe Harroz, president of the University of Oklahoma. Harroz added that the new tower will give controllers the height, technology and line of sight needed to protect pilots, students and visitors alike.
Features and capabilities
The tower’s height is double that of the previous structure, providing controllers with an unobstructed view of the runway and surrounding airspace. Inside, airport director Lance Lamkin explained that the expanded workspace offers twice as much room for controllers to operate efficiently.
“Right now, none of our FAA equipment is in for security reasons, but we will have a STAR system so controllers can see aircraft on the radar as they are entering our airspace,” Lamkin said. The STAR (Standard Terminal Arrival Route) system will allow real‑time tracking of inbound flights, further enhancing safety.
Impact on the community
The new tower is expected to support a broad range of users, from university aviation students to business‑jet operators and fans traveling to OU football games. Lamkin emphasized that the facility is designed to ensure every aircraft, whether a small trainer or a large corporate jet, can take off and land safely.
In addition to the tower, the airport plans to renovate its runways to accommodate more flights each year, positioning Max Westheimer Airport as a key hub for Oklahoma’s aviation future.
Celebration and symbolism
During the opening ceremony, the university’s OU logo was illuminated on the tower’s side, a visual reminder of the institution’s long‑standing contribution to the state’s aerospace achievements. The lighting will automatically turn on at dusk, creating a landmark that residents can see from the surrounding community.
Local officials, university representatives and aviation enthusiasts gathered to applaud the project, noting that the tower not only improves safety but also signals Oklahoma’s dedication to maintaining a competitive edge in the national aerospace market.
Looking ahead
With the tower now operational, the university and airport officials anticipate a steady increase in flight activity. The upgraded facility is expected to attract additional training programs, corporate aviation partners and potential commercial services, further strengthening Oklahoma’s reputation as a leader in aerospace.
“This control tower will ensure that everybody, whether you’re a student, a business jet, or a visitor for one of our OU football games, gets in and out as safely as possible,” Lamkin concluded.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
