Romaine & LaLota Announce $20 Million Air Traffic Control Tower Project at Gabreski Airport

HAUPPAUGE, NY - Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine and Congressman Nick LaLota announced the start of the $20 million air traffic control tower project at Gabreski Airport as part of a series of improvements to enhance safety and meet the demand for increased flights and services at the airport.

"This tower will replace the aging tower built in 1943 when this was solely a military installation," said Romaine. "Our new tower will meet the updated FAA guidelines and the changing needs of our customers, ensuring a safe experience for everyone flying in and out of Gabreski Airport."

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Gabreski Airport is an essential economic hub on the east end, supporting high paying jobs, business interests and connectivity to the rest of the country. During the 2026 U.S. Open, Gabreski saw a 91% increase in flights (1,983) compared to the 2018 U.S. Open. The new tower will better support times of increased traffic.

This phase of construction was made possible in large part to the $11 million in federal funds secured by Congressman LaLota. The new tower stands adjacent to the old tower and will be approximately twice as tall at 146 feet. Additionally, the new tower will significantly improve air traffic control visibility, incorporate latest technology and include a full-building backup generator.

Gabreski Airport's regional economic impact includes:

• 44,000-60,000 Aircraft operations annually.
• $116.1 million economic impact
• Supports 1,085 jobs.
• Contributed $3.3 million in local tax revenue.
• Gabreski attracts tens of millions of dollars in private sector development.

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