The airspace above Winter Haven is bustling. On any given day, numerous aircraft—including student flights, business jets, recreational planes, Tampa General Hospital’s emergency medical helicopter, and iconic seaplanes—operate in and out of Winter Haven Regional Airport (KGIF). Despite this high volume and diverse mix of aircraft, pilots currently share a common radio frequency used by multiple airports across the state.
This shared frequency requires pilots to navigate through radio communications from various airports, making it challenging to maintain clear and immediate communication with others in their vicinity. In critical moments, communication via a dedicated communication channel would enhance safety.
Recognizing this concern, a delegation of Winter Haven officials traveled to Washington, D.C., to advocate for the assignment of a dedicated FAA communication frequency for KGIF. Their discussions with federal agencies and legislative staff emphasized the pressing need for this change to enhance airspace safety.
Complementing this effort, Winter Haven is pioneering the implementation of a Remote Digital Air Traffic Control Tower. Fully funded by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), this innovative system will be operated remotely from a control center at Bartow Executive Airport. The digital tower will utilize high-definition cameras and sensors to provide air traffic controllers with a comprehensive view of KGIF's airspace, facilitating more efficient and safer aircraft operations.
This initiative not only addresses current safety concerns but also positions Winter Haven at the forefront of aviation technology advancements. The collaboration with Bartow Executive Airport and the support from FDOT underscore the region's commitment to enhancing aviation infrastructure and safety.
While in Washington, the delegation also explored potential federal support for a roadway infrastructure project to help accommodate Winter Haven's rapid growth and evolving transportation needs.
The Winter Haven delegation included:
- Nathaniel J. Birdsong, Jr., Mayor
- Brian Yate, Mayor Pro-Tem
- Clif Dollison, Commissioner
- T. Michael Stavres, City Manager
- MJ Carnevale, Deputy City Manager
- Katrina Hill, Director of Public Affairs & Communication
- Jake Polumbo, Retired U.S. Air Force Major General & KGIF Safety Committee Member
Their meetings encompassed discussions with:
- Senator Rick Scott
- Senator Ashley Moody’s Senior Policy Advisor Connor Tomlinson
- Representative Scott Franklin
- Representative Darren Soto
- Representative Daniel Webster's Transportation Policy Advisor Rick Podeliska
- FAA Assistant Administrator Simone Perez
- White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs, Deputy Director Christine Serrano Glassner
In addition to advancing these priorities, the delegation took time to visit the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial to honor and remember Winter Haven’s three fallen officers. Two of their names are already inscribed on the memorial, and the third will be added in the near future. The visit was a solemn and meaningful reminder of the sacrifices made in service to the community.
View the materials City officials distributed while in Washington D.C.: