Work begins on upgrades to KSUD

Work has begun on several upgrades to Stroud Municipal Airport (KSUD) in Oklahoma, including a longer runway and new lighting.

The improvement project, now underway, will widen Runway 18/36 from 60 to 75 feet wide and extend it from 3,000 to 4,000 feet. The project will also rehabilitate the existing portion of the runway.

The new size and improvements are necessary to satisfy FAA standards, according to airport officials, who note it is hoped it will also increase economic development as well as opportunities for larger aircraft to fly into KSUD.

The project also includes the installation of new LED runway lights and Precision Approach Path Indicators (PAPIs).

The full cost for the runway and lighting improvements is about $6.7 million. The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) will provide $3.6 million while FAA will provide $3 million and the local airport sponsor will contribute nearly $115,000.

“Stroud’s runway and lighting upgrades will boost operations and elevate the flight experience for both business and general aviation in the community,” said Grayson Ardies, ODAA executive director.

Stroud Municipal Airport originally began as part of a Civil Aeronautics Administration (CAA) project in 1931. The CAA leased 90 acres to be used as an emergency landing field for military pilots during training flights. Since 1943, the airport has been operated by the city of Stroud. Stroud Municipal has expanded to 180 acres and is home to 16 based aircraft and sees about 3,600 takeoffs and landings annually.

For more information: Oklahoma.gov, CityOfStroud.com/Airport