Airport Threatened With Closure Due To Lack Of Available Emergency Services

The Ely Air Races, scheduled for June 13-15 in Ely, NV have been cancelled following a visit by an FAA inspector to the Ely Airport.

The Ely News reports that Airport Manager Lance Gale told the White Pine County Commission that he learned of the pending closure of the airport (KELY) at a special fire commission meeting after the nearest fire station was closed. The FAA reportedly has withdrawn the airport's Part 139 authorization due to the move.

Gale said that he was advised April 19 by the interim district fire chief that there were no Airport Rescue Fire Truck personnel available to respond to incidents at the airport. He also told the commission that he has been informed by the FAA that if the station remains closed and there is no possibility of EMS response to the airport it could have an effect on future grant applications.

Concerning the air show and air races, Gale said the company that was going to run the event was unable to fulfill obligations in the appropriate amount of time, adding that the event requires EMS support.

Gale also cited slow ticket sales and a lack of available cash to put on the event. After a lengthy discussion, the commission agreed that the best course of action was to cancel the races.

FMI: Source report