Flights Continue at Caribou Municipal Airport Amid Apron Reconstruction

Key Takeaways

• Caribou Municipal Airport is upgrading 5,000 sq. yards of its terminal apron using a $433,000 federal grant.
• Construction began in 2024, is phased to keep the airport open for general aviation and medevac flights.
• The project improves safety with new pavement, drainage, tie-down anchors, and includes DBE participation.

Flights Continue at Caribou Municipal Airport as Terminal Apron Gets Major Upgrade

Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How

As of July 2025, flights are still landing at Caribou Municipal Airport while a major construction project is underway. The airport, located in Caribou, Maine, is rebuilding about 5,000 square yards of its terminal apron—the paved area where planes park, load, and unload. This upgrade is possible thanks to a $433,000 federal grant awarded in August 2024 through the Airport Infrastructure Grant program, which is part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Airport Improvement Program. The project aims to improve safety, support local aviation needs, and prepare the airport for future growth.

What Is the Terminal Apron and Why Is It Important?

The terminal apron is a large, paved area next to the airport terminal. It’s where planes park, passengers get on and off, and cargo is loaded or unloaded. Over time, the pavement can crack, sink, or wear out, making it unsafe for planes and people. At Caribou Municipal Airport, the apron’s old pavement needed to be replaced to keep the airport safe and running smoothly.

Key Details of the Apron Reconstruction Project

The project involves several important steps:

• Removing and replacing old pavement: Workers are taking out the worn pavement and putting down new layers.
• Excavation and drainage: They’re digging out the area and installing an underdrain system to keep water from collecting under the pavement, which can cause damage.
• New subbase and base gravels: Fresh gravel layers are being added to make the foundation strong.
• New pavement and markings: Once the base is ready, new pavement is laid and painted with clear lines for parking and moving planes.
• Tie-down anchors: These are special spots where planes can be safely secured when parked.

All these steps are designed to make the apron safer and more reliable for pilots, passengers, and airport workers.

How Is the Project Being Managed?

The City of Caribou owns and operates the airport and is leading the project. They hired Stantec Consulting Services Inc. to handle engineering and manage the bidding process. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is providing most of the funding and making sure all rules are followed. Contractors and subcontractors were chosen through a competitive bidding process, with special attention to including Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs)—small businesses owned by minorities, women, or other underrepresented groups.

Timeline: How Did the Project Get Started?

• March 2024: The city invited companies to bid on the project.
• April 3, 2024: A pre-bid meeting was held at the airport terminal so interested companies could ask questions and see the site.
• April 12, 2024: Bids were due.
• August 2024: The airport received the $433,000 federal grant.
• 2024-2025 Construction Season: Work began, with the project split into two phases to keep the airport open and safe.

Keeping the Airport Open During Construction

One of the most important parts of this project is that Caribou Municipal Airport remains open to flights. The airport mainly serves general aviation, medevac, and charter flights—there are no commercial airlines based here. To keep things running:

• Construction is happening in phases, so part of the apron is always available.
• Temporary parking and work zones are set up to keep planes and people safe.
• Pilots and aircraft operators are told to check NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) for any changes in parking or taxi routes.

This careful planning means that emergency flights, medical transports, and local pilots can still use the airport while the work is going on.

Why Is This Project Important for Caribou and Northern Maine?

Caribou Municipal Airport is a key part of the local community. It connects people and goods to the rest of Maine and beyond, supports emergency services, and helps local businesses. The apron reconstruction is part of a larger effort to modernize rural airports, improve safety, and boost the economy in northern Maine.

The $433,000 grant is just one part of a $12 million package given to Maine airports in 2024. Caribou’s share is focused on fixing the terminal apron, but the airport’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) also includes:

• Buying new snow removal equipment (planned for 2025)
• Designing and building a new fuel farm (where planes can refuel)
• Developing new hangars and taxiways

These projects will help the airport stay up to date and ready for future needs.

Who Are the Main Stakeholders?

Several groups are involved in making this project a success:

• City of Caribou: Owns and manages the airport, sets priorities, and oversees the work.
• Stantec Consulting Services Inc.: Handles engineering, design, and bid management.
• Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): Provides funding and makes sure all rules are followed.
• Prime Contractors and Subcontractors: Do the actual construction work, chosen through a fair bidding process.
• Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs): The city’s program makes sure these businesses have a fair chance to take part and get paid on time.

How Does the Federal Grant Work?

The federal grant comes from the Airport Infrastructure Grant program, which is part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This law was passed to help fix roads, bridges, airports, and other important parts of the country’s transportation system. The FAA manages the grant and checks that the money is spent correctly.

For Caribou, the grant covers most of the cost of rebuilding the apron. The city may also contribute some local funds, but the federal money is the main source. Contractors must follow strict rules about payment, safety, and including DBEs.

What Are the Practical Implications for Different Groups?

• Pilots and Aircraft Operators: Need to check for temporary changes in parking or taxi routes. They should read the latest NOTAMs before flying in or out of Caribou Municipal Airport.
• General Public and Passengers: There are no regular airline flights at Caribou, but the airport is still important for local travel, medical flights, and business charters.
• Contractors and Vendors: Must follow federal rules, provide a bid security of at least 5% of their bid, and pay DBEs promptly.

Expert and Official Perspectives

U.S. Rep. Jared Golden has spoken about the importance of rural airports like Caribou’s. He says they are vital for connecting people, moving goods, and providing emergency services. The federal government’s investment shows a strong commitment to helping Maine’s rural communities stay connected and safe.

City of Caribou officials have made the apron reconstruction a top priority. They say it’s a critical upgrade for safety and daily operations. By fixing the apron now, they’re making sure the airport can keep serving local and regional needs for years to come.

What’s Next for Caribou Municipal Airport?

The apron reconstruction is expected to finish during the 2025 construction season, as long as the weather cooperates. Once the new apron is done, the airport will be safer and able to handle more planes. This could help attract more flights, support local businesses, and even open the door for new services in the future.

The airport’s Capital Improvement Plan doesn’t stop with the apron. Other projects in the works include:

• Snow removal equipment: Keeping the runway and apron clear in winter is essential in Maine.
• Fuel farm design and construction: Making it easier for planes to refuel on site.
• Hangar development: Building new spaces for planes to park and for aviation businesses to grow.

These improvements will help Caribou Municipal Airport stay competitive and ready for whatever comes next.

How Does This Project Affect Immigration and International Travel?

While Caribou Municipal Airport does not currently have commercial airline service or international flights, upgrades like the apron reconstruction are important for the broader aviation network. Improved facilities can make it easier for charter flights, medevac services, and business travelers—including those with immigration needs—to use the airport safely.

For example, if a businessperson or family from another country needs to fly into northern Maine for work, study, or to visit relatives, a well-maintained airport makes their journey smoother. In emergencies, such as medical evacuations or disaster response, having a reliable airport can be a lifeline for people from all backgrounds.

How Can Stakeholders Stay Informed?

Anyone interested in the project can:

• Visit the official City of Caribou website (cariboumaine.org) for updates, bid documents, and airport information.
• Contact the City of Caribou, Airport Division at 12 Airport Drive, Caribou, Maine 04736.
• Email engineering or bid questions to [email protected].
• Check the latest NOTAMs for operational updates if planning to fly in or out of the airport.

For more information about federal airport grants and infrastructure programs, the FAA’s Airport Improvement Program page provides detailed guidance and updates for airports and the public.

Summary Table: Caribou Municipal Airport Apron Project (2024-2025)

What Should Pilots and Travelers Do Now?

If you’re a pilot or aircraft operator planning to use Caribou Municipal Airport during the construction period:

• Check NOTAMs for the latest updates on parking, taxiways, and any temporary restrictions.
• Be prepared for possible changes in where you can park or how you move around the airport.
• Contact the airport office if you have questions or need special arrangements.

If you’re a member of the public, local business, or government agency:

• Stay informed about the project’s progress through the city’s website and public announcements.
• Consider how the improved airport can support your travel, business, or emergency needs in the future.

Looking Ahead: Long-Term Benefits for Caribou and Beyond

When the apron reconstruction is complete, Caribou Municipal Airport will be better equipped to serve the community. The new pavement and tie-downs will make it safer for planes to park and operate. The airport will be ready for more flights, new types of aircraft, and possible service expansions in the years ahead.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, investments like the one at Caribou Municipal Airport are part of a larger trend to modernize rural airports across the United States 🇺🇸. These upgrades help keep small communities connected, support local economies, and make sure everyone—no matter where they live—has access to safe, reliable air travel.

Official Resources and Further Reading

For more details on federal airport funding and improvement programs, visit the FAA’s Airport Improvement Program page. This site offers up-to-date information on grants, eligibility, and ongoing projects at airports across the United States 🇺🇸.

Final Takeaways

• Caribou Municipal Airport is staying open during a major apron reconstruction, thanks to a $433,000 federal grant.
• The project will make the airport safer, more reliable, and ready for future growth.
• Stakeholders—including pilots, local residents, and businesses—should stay informed and take advantage of the improved facilities.
• The airport’s upgrades are part of a broader push to modernize rural airports and support communities across the United States 🇺🇸.

By investing in projects like the terminal apron rebuild, Caribou Municipal Airport is securing its place as a vital link for northern Maine—now and for years to come.

Learn Today

Terminal Apron → Paved area where planes park, load passengers, cargo, and prepare for flights at the airport terminal.
Federal Grant → Government funding awarded to support infrastructure projects, covering most costs under strict compliance rules.
Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs) → Small businesses owned by minorities, women, or underrepresented groups included in federally funded projects.
NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) → Official alerts about temporary changes affecting flight operations, such as parking or taxiway restrictions.
Airport Infrastructure Grant → A federally managed funding program under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for airport improvements.

This Article in a Nutshell

Caribou Municipal Airport is reconstructing its terminal apron with a $433,000 federal grant. The phased project preserves flight operations, enhancing safety and supporting future growth for local and emergency aviation needs in northern Maine, reflecting a national effort to modernize rural airports and boost regional connectivity.
— By VisaVerge.com