National/Regional Airport of the Year: New Braunfels National Airport

New Braunfels National Airport has used its master plan as a foundational guidance for all airport development activities, ensuring every improvement supports long-term goals for capacity, safety and economic impact. Through careful planning and ongoing engagement with stakeholders, the airport has identified opportunities for development, prioritized infrastructure investments and positioned itself to meet future demand, attract new business and remain a vital asset to the region.

In recent years, the airport has completed several key projects that reflect this strategic approach. A runway rehabilitation project improved surface quality and safety and extended the lifespan of the runway. A new detention pond was constructed to enhance stormwater management and reduce flood risk. The north apron reconstruction project modernized aircraft parking and maneuvering areas while increasing capacity for larger aircraft. Perimeter fencing and access control gates further improved operational safety and security.

Each of these improvements has delivered tangible benefits for the surrounding community, including reduced environmental risk, improved safety, and expanded economic opportunity.

Current efforts include completion of a new air traffic control tower and advancement of a feasibility study for a new terminal on the west side of the airport. These initiatives will support continued operational growth, enhance passenger experience and position the airport for long-term success.

“It has been a pleasure to work with Airport Director Robert Lee, Airport Operations Manager Brendan Haas and the City of New Braunfels as they have transitioned from a regional airport to a busy national airport due to the large increase in aircraft operations, fuel sales and hangar development,” said TxDOT Airport Planner Ben Breck. “They are most deserving of this recognition, with continuous capital improvement projects and a visionary approach toward the future.”