Alamogordo plans to extend its airport's runway by 2,200 feet to accommodate use by newer firefighting air tankers.
The Alamogordo Daily News reports that the city commission's approval of the $1.8 million project sets the stage for a mid-December groundbreaking ceremony at White Sands Regional Airport.
Airport Manager Jim Talbert says the extension is needed to accommodate landings by newer and larger jet tankers.
The airport now can only accommodate older aircraft dating from the 1950s.
Talbert said there's no completion date set as of yet but says the work for take up to a year and a half to complee.
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