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The Next Big Thing: Taxiway U

There’s a saying in aviation circles that an airport is a never-ending construction zone, and that applies to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. The list of prominent projects that have been completed at PHX within the past year alone include the new eight-gate concourse in Terminal 4, and the completion of the PHX Sky Train® with its two new stations.

We are always planning ahead, and the next big thing on our roadmap to accommodate future demand is the design and construction of a new taxiway on the west end of the airport connecting the north and south runways.

Q: What is a taxiway and why is it needed?
A: A taxiway is a strip of pavement that allows for aircraft to transit to different parts of the airport. Currently, the only taxiways at PHX are on the east end and a west taxiway will allow for more efficient movement.

Q: What must be done to construct this taxiway?
A: The biggest challenges are making substantial roadway modifications, including realigning Sky Harbor Boulevard and Buckeye Road, and moving the current cargo operations to make room for the new taxiway.

Q: How much will it cost?
A: It is estimated to cost $260 million.

Q: How will it be paid for?
A: Approximately $194 million is anticipated to come from monies set aside by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed by Congress in 2021 and approved by the Phoenix City Council in April 2022, with the balance being paid from Passenger Facility Charges and airport revenues.

Q: When will construction begin?
A: We are still in the preliminary design phase. Construction is not expected to begin until 2024.

Check https://www.skyharbor.com/ for updates on this and related construction projects!