Taxiway A Holding Bay

The 2020 Airport Master Plan Update identified Taxiway A shoulders as being deficient at Lakeland Linder International Airport (the "Airport"). The future critical aircraft for Runway 10/28 (formerly 09/27) was identified as the Boeing 767-300F with a Runway Design Code (RDC) of C-IV. Based on calendar year 2023 operations identified in the FAA Operations and Performance Database, Traffic Flow Management System Counts (TFMSC), 3,595 operations of C-IV aircraft were recorded, making this aircraft the current critical aircraft for Runway 10/28 and parallel Taxiway A. Of these, 3,545 operations were Taxiway Design Group (TDG) 5 aircraft. The Boeing 767-300F is a TDG 5 aircraft, which according to Table 4-2 of FAA AC 150/5300-13B, requires 30-foot taxiway shoulders. The north side development at the Airport comprises a significant number of general aviation facilities, including those supporting small single-engine and multi-engine propeller-driven aircraft. Future expansion of these general aviation facilities is anticipated and identified on the currently approved Airport Layout Plan (ALP). As activity continues to grow in this area of the airfield, a designated location for aircraft to hold while conducting pre-departure engine checks and preparing for departure is necessary to maintain safe and efficient aircraft operations. In accordance with FAA AC 150/5300-13B, Chapter 5, Section 5.17.1, holding bay areas are recommended to limit the exposure of propeller wash and jet exhaust that can cause property damage or personal injury. A holding bay is a designated paved area adjacent to a taxiway where aircraft can temporarily position while conducting engine checks or awaiting access to the runway without obstructing taxiway traffic. These areas are intended to allow pilots to safely perform required pre-departure procedures while minimizing impacts to nearby aircraft parking areas, buildings, vehicles, and personnel. Holding bay areas are recommended to be located away from aircraft parking positions, gate areas, and buildings to reduce the potential for damage from jet blast or propeller wash. Due to space limitations at both the Runway 10 and Runway 28 ends, the proposed holding bay for Runway 10/28 is located near the midpoint of the runway. This location provides a centralized and convenient area for aircraft operators accessing the runway while also limiting the potential for property damage or injury. Per FAA AC 150/5300-13B, holding bays are recommended to limit damage to persons and property as a result of jet exhaust and/or propeller wash. Additionally, per FAA Order 5100.38D, Appendix H, Section H-2, item c, holding bays are eligible for funding if the runway is eligible and the holding bay is justified and meets the requirements outlined in FAA AC 150/5300-13B.