Dallas Love Field (DAL) has enhanced aviation public safety with the completion of its new Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) Station 21 and Airport Operations building.

After a five-year effort, the 33,400-square-foot modern, comprehensive facility, designed to house and support both Dallas-Fire Rescue (DFR) and DAL Operations functions, will officially open its doors on August 13, 2026. This makes it the second-largest ARFF station in Texas and the fourth-largest in the United States.

“Ultimately, this project represents more than just a new building; it reflects DAL's commitment to enhancing emergency response, streamlining airport operations, and leading the way towards a more sustainable and resilient future for aviation,” said Patrick Carreno, Director of Aviation, City of Dallas.

The extensive capital project was planned and constructed with the expertise of consultants and contractors, including PGAL, HNTB, Mead & Hunt, Raba Kistner, and Satterfield and Pontikes.

DAL is the busiest medium-hub airport in the United States, ranking second-busiest for jet activity. It serves nearly 18 million passengers annually, supports more than 250,000 aircraft operations, and manages 13.8 million square feet of airside pavement.

To sustain this level of activity, the DFR units and Aviation Operations teams at DAL require advanced technologies and infrastructure incorporated into the innovative facility. While DFR responds to a wide range of airfield emergencies, the Operations teams are responsible for maintaining regulatory compliance, ensuring airfield safety, and coordinating ground services to prevent disruptions to aircraft movements.

Previously, the Operations teams were dispersed across multiple Aviation buildings, which led to inefficiencies in response times and strategic planning. Additionally, the former Station 21, built in the 1960s, was well past its useful life, and its location extended emergency response times.

“This state-of-the-art facility provides our firefighters with cutting edge training tools,  modern equipment, and proximity to perform at the highest level,” said Justin Ball, Dallas Fire Chief. “This investment is another tool that ensures Dallas Fire-Rescue continues to provide the highest level of safety for residents and the millions of travelers who pass through our city.”

The new building is equipped with, but not limited to:

• An XCharge, high-power, intelligent charging system for the world’s first all-electric ARFF vehicle, and future electric vehicles 
• A designated storm shelter
• Rapid deployment bi-folding doors
• A maintenance bay featuring an overhead crane lift
• A fully equipped training room
• Amenities including a gym, outdoor kitchen, and a conference room

As DAL looks towards the future through its capital improvement program, LEAP, it aims to combine operational efficiency and infrastructure modernization while reducing its environmental footprint to ensure long-term resilience and safety.