Letters to the Editor
Letter to the Editor | Narrows Airport contributes greatly to economic vitality
I just read Mr. McLaughlin’s letter dated July 20, 2026 with the headline of “Is Tacoma Narrows Airport A Good Neighbor“?
As a former private pilot myself, I can answer that rhetorical question: YES!
With respect, I am reminded of that old adage….”A little information is a dangerous thing” -and that certainly applies to this topic.
This quote from his letter, is just laughable, because it is completely devoid of context or fact; rather just something to cause public angst and concern for no reason:
“We’ve been told the County is looking to expand the use of TIW even further. In addition, we’ve been told, “If you think the planes you hear now are loud, wait until you see what’s coming!” Oh brother. No facts.
The Tacoma Narrow Airport contributes hugely to the general economic vitality of the Greater Gig Harbor Community. Through the taxes collected from fuel sales and hangar leases to Pierce County as the landlord, as well as offering businesses and individuals opportunities for general aviation. Even the Peninsula School District now is sponsoring an aviation program for students who wish to go on as pilots, aircraft mechanics, or even air traffic controllers.
As to McLaughlin’s claims of errant pilotage by some of the private pilot aircraft, he seems to little knowledge of traffic patterns or even aviation in general.
Let’s not lower the bar on this topic, by causing discontent without a full discussion of the merits of aviation in our Community.
James Castino
Gig Harbor