Manassas Airport Announces Groundbreaking for New Air Traffic Control Tower

A New Height for Air Traffic Operations The replacement tower will feature a controller eye height of 125 feet, an increase of 58 feet over the existing tower’s 67-foot controller eye height. This added elevation will provide enhanced visibility across the airfield.

The new control cab will encompass approximately 550 square feet, nearly three times the size of the existing 189-square-foot cab. The expanded space will provide air traffic controllers with a more modern and functional working environment.

The overall tower building will encompass approximately 18,300 square feet across eight stories, including a 9,180-square-foot base building. The facility will accommodate modern training and support spaces, including training rooms, offices, a playback room, and a state-of-the-art simulator. These resources will help support controller training and the continued development of air traffic operations.

The existing tower, commissioned in 1992, was the FAA’s first recycled air traffic control tower. The City of Manassas purchased the tower from Centennial Airport in Colorado for $65,000 and relocated it to Washington Manassas Airport, where it has served for more than 34 years.

Investing in the Future of Washington Manassas Airport The new Air Traffic Control Tower is part of Washington Manassas Airport’s broader commitment to maintain safe, efficient, and modern aviation infrastructure while preparing for future opportunities. As Virginia’s 10th commercial service airport, Washington Manassas Airport serves the greater Washington, D.C., region and contributes $517 million to the local economy.

Construction is expected to be completed by 2029, with the project estimated to cost $41 million. Costello Construction, Columbia, Maryland, is serving as the project’s general contractor. RS&H designed the project and will be providing engineering services.

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