Image: Construction renderings of new Student Union
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is excited to share planned future infrastructure enhancements and operations upgrades to support the flight program at its Prescott Campus while looking to the future of the university in Yavapai County and its neighbors.
According to Prescott Chancellor Ken Witcher, Ph.D., “In addition to current and ongoing construction activities, we’ve begun to explore alternative locations in Yavapai County for an auxiliary airfield. With broad federal and state-level support, this planned new site will ensure the success of our flight students by increasing capacity and enhancing safety, while also helping to reduce flight congestion and noise in populated parts of the county.”
Dr. Witcher stressed that site assessments are in the very early stages and no decisions have been made on a potential location for the auxiliary field.
This planned infrastructure improvement will enhance community engagement, fuel the local economy, and provide additional high-paying job opportunities for the residents of Yavapai County and the state of Arizona.
As part of the university’s commitment to safety and operational efficiency, Embry-Riddle additionally announces updates on the following projects, which are paving the way for the next series of projects, including the exploration of the auxiliary airfield.
- The recently expanded Robertson Flight Simulation Center is now operational and includes advanced simulation and virtual reality technology, allowing flight students to train in safe, sustainable, and controlled environments before stepping onto a plane. While training requirements are dictated by the FAA, these improvements could reduce the amount of time students need to spend in aircraft.
- The Strategic Academic Flight Education Complex (SAFE) construction is well-underway, increasing capacity and safety for Embry-Riddle’s best-in-class flight training program. This cutting-edge facility is located on the university’s facilities at the Prescott Regional Airport and will include ramp space, a hangar, office space, student space, simulators and classrooms. Construction is expected to be completed in January 2026.
- Construction has begun on a new student union and residence hall, both of which will provide living and learning environments prioritizing education and student well-being. Construction of these facilities will conclude in Fall 2026. These spaces are designed to support academic and student services.
- Additional improvements include a state-of-the-art wind tunnel and propulsion hanger; athletic and related infrastructure improvements; and general campus infrastructure improvements.
“Embry-Riddle will continue to serve as a catalyst for high-paying jobs and work to engage youth in STEM opportunities, attracting world-class students who are preparing to become the next generation of engineers, scientists, aviators, and explorers,” Dr. Witcher added.
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2 thoughts on “Embry-Riddle Explores Future Infrastructure Enhancements; Assesses Potential Locations for Auxiliary Airfield in Yavapai County”
Perhaps on the East side of Fain road. The Fain’s are always interested in making money and it is a level area as big as you want. However, it does have a large Pronghorn population. Fish and Game may be concerned but the Fain’s won’t shy away. After all, they were trying to put a 650 bed prison there in 2010. Luckily for once the good people of Prescott Valley stood up and the deal never came to a vote by council.
Back in the Day there was a 3800ft Gravel Airstrip in Cordes. FAA Code 00AZ. Some Aeronautical Charts still identify it.
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