Long Island MacArthur Reopens

Long Island MacArthur Airport reopened at 4:30 p.m. Sunday to general aviation aircraft and commercial flights are expected to resume Monday, Islip Town officials said.

Travelers on commercial airlines should check with their carrier regarding changes to flight times, airport officials said. The airport is served by Southwest Airlines and U.S. Airways Express.

Islip Supervisor Phil Nolan reported that following what he termed an extensive evaluation of the 1,311-acre facility, including the terminal and about two dozen other buildings, roadways and runways, the airport was given the go ahead to reopen.

“MacArthur’s staff and stakeholders did an outstanding job preparing for the storm with excellent results,” he said.

Teresa Rizzuto, airport commissioner, said the airport weathered Irene well and sustained minimal damage. “A crew of airport employees remained at the airport overnight to provide security, fire rescue and maintenance support,” she said.

The Town-operated airport is home to hundreds of private aircraft as well as two commercial carriers. Select private aircraft were relocated to other facilities prior to the storm and will return to MacArthur on Sunday.