Orcas Island Airport Master Plan

The Port of Orcas chose DOWL to complete an Airport Master Plan, Airport Layout Plan, and Airport Geographic Information System for this busy general aviation airport in the San Juan Islands. Orcas Island Airport plays a significant role of transportation for both residents and tourists serving nearly 10,000 passengers each year using local air taxi carriers and providing air cargo services for FedEx and UPS. The airport is constrained on all sides, with ocean to the north, a marina and houses along each side, and the primary road on the island passing through the runway protection zone to the south. The master plan’s main focus was to bring the airport into compliance with current Federal Aviation Administration design standards, while providing current and future capacity needs. Public outreach played a significant role in the project, including Port Commission presentations, user interviews, advisory committee meetings, community presentations, and public open houses.