View of the Taos mountains from Taos Regional Airport runway with JSX air service. Courtesy photo
Rendering of what will be the Taos Regional Airport passenger waiting lounge with a central service counter. Courtesy photo
TAOS News:
The Town of Taos has announced the upcoming construction of a new multipurpose terminal facility at the Taos Regional Airport (SKX) in El Prado, 8 miles northwest of the Taos central business district (24662 Highway US-64).
The 7,500-square-foot terminal will serve as a modern hub for general aviation, recreational and business travelers, seasonal charter services, and critical air ambulance operations.
A groundbreaking ceremony to mark the start of construction will be held 11 a.m. to noon, Feb. 19. The event will be attended by the Mayor of Taos, Town Manager and members of the Town Council, with a representative of the Office of Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and select state legislators invited to join. Other distinguished guests will include representatives from the New Mexico State Aviation Division, Lochner (project consultants), Gensler (architects), and Mick Rich Construction Company (general contractor).
“This project represents a significant step forward for the Taos Regional Airport and the broader community,” Taos Mayor Pascualito Maestas said. “By combining modern infrastructure with sustainable design, we are creating a facility that reflects the unique character of Taos while meeting the needs of our travelers and partners.”
The new terminal will feature a range of amenities designed to enhance the passenger experience and support airport operations. These include a passenger waiting lounge with an outdoor patio, a central service counter, baggage handling areas, restrooms, airport management offices, a pilot lounge, storage and mechanical support spaces, and a conference room available for both airport use and community events.
The Town of Taos received a $5.4 million Capital Appropriation from the State of New Mexico and an additional $1.5 million in supplemental funding from New Mexico Department of Transportation Aviation Division that will cover most of the terminal construction costs. The project emphasizes a harmonious blend of modern architecture and attention to ecology. The landscape design incorporates native plant materials and organic patterns to reflect the natural beauty of the Taos region.
“The Taos Regional Airport serves as a gateway to Taos and a vital access point for the community, supporting general aviation, business travel, and vital emergency services,” Town Manager Lupe Martinez said. “The new terminal will not only improve operational efficiency but will also provide a welcoming space for travelers and residents alike.”
Construction is expected to begin this month and to be completed in October 2025, marking a new era of connectivity and growth for the region.
Exterior rendering of what will be the new Taos Regional Airport Terminal. Courtesy photo
Taos Regional Airport Manager Colton Rapstine pictured with his 1959 Cessna 175. Courtesy photo