PHOENIX- Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is equipped well into the future and will be able to handle expected growth in air traffic thanks to the opening of the new $89 million air traffic control tower, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Mary E. Peters announced January 12 after an inspection and tour of the new facility.

The new tower began operation at midnight January 13 and will go fully operational on January 27, replacing the existing 30-year-old facility, said Secretary Peters.

“Phoenix needs a new tower that will help it grow, not hold it back,” Secretary Peters said. “This new air traffic control tower provides growing room for a growing city.”

The Secretary said the new tower also will give an unobstructed view of the entire airfield to air traffic controllers, unlike the current tower which is partially blocked by a parking garage.

Peters also noted the new tower will have the best new technology in order to make flying in and out of Sky Harbor more efficient. Sky Harbor is the world’s 8^th busiest airport for takeoffs and landings. The new digital and ground radar technology will enable Sky Harbor Airport to handle the projected growth, she said.

“Too often, at too many airports, more traffic means more delays,” said Secretary Peters. “But, thanks to the technology in this new tower, more traffic will mean more flights, more convenience, and more opportunities.”

Additionally, the Secretary noted that the new tower will give controllers a better view of the airfield while protecting them from Phoenix’s bright sunlight and harsh temperatures.

“We’re giving controllers a new work place and Phoenix a new landmark,” Secretary Peters said.