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Airport Authority
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Airport Layout Plan Future Development
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HISTORY Jack Edwards National Airport (JKA), originally named Canal Field, became operational in 1942 and was first used as an outlying field (OLF) for the Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Florida. The primary purpose of the airfield at that time was training for Naval Aviators. Due to transitions in training exercises, the airfield began to see a decrease in military operations and the facility was transferred to the Sate of Alabama in 1977. After the purchase, the name of the Airport was changed to Jack Edwards Airport in honor of the Congressman who was instrumental in transferring the property from the federal government to the State of Alabama. In 1983, the Airport was purchased by the City of Gulf Shores and has since become a valuable asset in the growth and economic development of the surrounding communities. In 1988, the City of Gulf Shores established an Airport Authority to operate and manage the airport. A new general aviation terminal building was constructed in 1998 to accommodate passengers and serve as the Airports welcome center for travelers. In 2003, Runway 9/27 was extended to 6,962 feet and an Instrument Landing System (I.L.S.) with an Approach & Alignment Light System (MALER) was constructed. This allowed the airport to accommodate additional aircraft in inclement weather. As Jack Edwards National Airport continues to grow, the continuing planning and development will give it the ability to be a competitive transportation hub for the Cities of Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and South Baldwin County as a key element to attract more visitors and industry to the Alabama Gulf Coast. CHARACTERISTICS OF THE AIRPORT Jack Edwards Airport is located approximately 2 miles north of the central business district of Gulf Shores, Alabama. The airport is situated on approximately 1100 acres of land bordered to the north by Cotton Creek Drive, to the west by Alabama Highway 59, and to the south by Mildred Casey Drive. The field elevation is 16 feet MSL and the existing airport reference point (ARP) is latitude 30* 17 25.65 N, longitude 87* 40 18.40 W. The Airport is currently served by two paved runways designated 9/27 and 17/35. Runway 9/27, the primary runway, is 6,962 x 100 with a 462 displaced threshold to Runway 9. Runway 17/35, the crosswind or secondary runway, is 3,599 x 70. The majority of travelers visiting the Airport consist of those traveling for business, second homes, or recreational purposes. The continuing growth of development in the region, complemented by the natural attractions available in coastal areas, makes it attractive for real estate, retail and resort development. The area is also attractive to seekers of recreational activities such as fishing, golfing, shopping, or simply vacationing.
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