Valley International Airport of Harlingen: A Top 75 Airport in the United States

The Valley International Airport of Harlingen (HRL) is the only air terminal in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) region to be listed among the top 75 airports with the largest cargo movement in the United States.

Among the competitive advantages offered, Nicolas J. Mirman, director of air service and business development , highlighted the strategic location, the current infrastructure system for the movement of goods, low operating costs, new construction projects, maintenance and the operational capacity. 

Coupled with the presence of cargo companies with international service, which in the records of the last 12 months marked a reception of 2,300 tons. 

The HRL has two lines of exclusive operation for the transport of goods and materials, Fedex and DHL , through Boeing 767-300 wide-body cargo planes with service several times a day, but there are also other lines that sell warehouses such as American, Delta, Southwest, Airlines, Cun Country  and United Airlines . “Our airport is developing multiple projects to become the best positioned in RGV”, mentioned J. Mirman.

The operational capacity guarantees minimal interruptions during flights, with three runways suitable for the operation of aircraft, including wide-body; In addition, in the coming months, the “ Cat-II”  equipment at the north and south headwaters will ensure that landings and takeoffs are carried out despite the existence of minimum visibility conditions.

The closest cities where that system has been implemented are Austin and San Antonio, both in Texas. 

The best positioned of RGV

J. Mirman informed Mexico Industry that, in search of being more attractive to industries and investment plans, " the main runway is in the process of expansion to achieve that there is no penalty in the operation of cargo flights, so for the In the first semester of 2024, it is sought to have 9,400 feet (2,865 meters) in length ”.

While, in the coming months, a new control tower will be informed. "It will replace the existing one and will allow our airspace to be locally controlled 24 hours a day, which none of the RGV airports have."

He added that, in terms of cargo, the movement is focused on the rest of the country, which allows any shipment to be processed and be on the transport route in a safer and more efficient way. “Our Fedex  and DHL freight carriers offer wide-body aircraft flights every day, maximizing flexibility for customers,” he said.