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themes and décor designed to transport visitors back to the days of the Old West.
An added convenience is an on-site General Store, open seven days a week that carries a variety of products and deli. And if guests require outdoor gear, Red Rocks Outfitters offers footwear, backpacks, trekking poles, cooking equipment, lighting and other outdoor products.
Flying into Lajitas
Lajitas International Airport is a privately-owned airport for use specifically by the resort’s guests. The airport has Jet A, 100LL, a GPU, an FBO building with flight planning options, tie-downs, hangars as well as transportation to the resort.
“Lajitas is arguably one of the most remote regions in the United States,” said Olson. “With Midland, Texas being the closest large city at a four-hour drive away, the resort is ideal for private aviation.”
Chris Baur, an operator of a PA46T Piper Meridian and a Robinson R66 helicopter, is a frequent visitor to Lajitas. Upon raving about the resort, Baur provided an overview of the flight procedures:
“Pilots can file IFR to 89TE. You will receive a cruise clearance from ZAB (Albuquerque Center) and a phone number (505-856-4500) to call and cancel your flight plan after landing at Lajitas. Cell service and internet are excellent at the resort, but there is no radio or radar service in this remote region of the United States. Pilots must also face high terrain in all quadrants around the airport.”
In addition, Chris noted that Hughes Aerospace Corporation is in the process of implementing a COPTER LPV Instrument Approach and Departure at Lajitas, as well as instrument approaches and departures to the new runway. This, along with the new AWOS-A, will provide day and night all-weather access to Lajitas International Airport including access for emergency medical helicopters.
The approaches are not the only tentative update to the airport, as the new 6,500-foot by 100-foot concrete runway (7/25) has a projected opening date of May 1, 2019. It will run parallel to the old 6,000-foot by 100-foot asphalt runway (to be used as a taxiway upon completion of the new runway).
Further information about the airport, such as landing reservations, can be found on the Lajitas Golf Resort website (www.lajitasgolfresort.com). Also on the site are numerous videos showcasing the features and beauty of Lajitas – something that can truly be appreciated in person.
Stay tuned for our next “Great Getaways” feature in the May issue.
Grant Boyd is a recent marketing graduate of Wichita State University. A private pilot, Boyd is currently working toward his instrument rating and MBA, with the ultimate goal of combining his love of business and aviation with a career at a general aviation manufacturer. You can contact Grant at grantboyd2015@gmail.com.
Turbines, Inc.
April 2019 / TWIN & TURBINE • 9