Federal officials cut the ribbon on Tucson International Airport’s new air traffic control tower Friday..
The tower, owned by the Federal Aviation Administration, sits on the southwest side of the main runway, and stands about twice as tall as the old tower. The increased height is an important feature of the tower.
“It greatly improves line of sight for our controllers of the airfield and the surrounding skies, and all of that means they are able to ensure the highest means of safety and efficiency in air traffic,” said FAA administrator Michael Huerta.
The tower features state-of-the-art technology and is built to be environmentally friendly, including a 1,600-panel solar farm.
Huerta said the panels and other power-saving features meant the tower’s first electric bill came out to about $30.
The old tower and its neon lettering, which are owned by the airport, will stay standing to greet travelers as they fly into town.
