Quote:
Originally posted by AlphaSigOU
On the other hand, DEN, with its high altitude requires very long runways. (I think they're extending all of 'em to at least 15,000 feet in length.)
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They started out at about 12K, with plans for a 15 or 16K runway for international flights. I'm not sure that one has been built yet. I'm not aware that any of the original runways have been extended.
The other thing about DIA (DEN to you) is that it is the largest airport in the world, total size-wise, just because of what you point out. (over 55 square miles) And it is basically surrounded by farmland. Those are among the reasons it was built so far out of town. Also, United, which handles about 70% of DIA's traffic has stopped using 727's all together because of noise.
And they (DIA) have still had to settle millions of dollars in lawsuits -- even after having taken the actions you and I describe.
And, as LXA Alum wrote:
"Stapleton (rest in peace) being a perfect example!
Now that homes are going up around the DIA perimeter - it's only a matter of time until DIA II has to be built - because of the complaints of new homeowners."
First, may the memory of Stapleton rot in... well, you know. I wonder how much of my life has been spent making circles in the sky over the Eastern Plains because it was sprinkling at Stapleton.
Second, if they do have to do DIA II farther out, it will probably be a nextdoor neighbor to Tom's KCI. The Taxicab lobby will love it, though.