Mountain Empire Obstruction Clearing

MTM Enterprises was contracted by Mountain Empire Airport to perform precision obstruction removal operations to ensure safe aircraft approach paths and compliance with updated FAA standards. This two-phase project focused on eliminating both vegetation and soil embankments that intruded into the runway’s protected airspace—tasks requiring strict coordination, adaptability, and environmental responsibility on a small-scale airfield.

Two-Phase Obstruction Removal

Phase 1: Tree Obstruction Clearing
Our crew of five completed the tree removal phase in just ten days. Dozens of mature trees were felled and chipped from the runway approach corridor to restore a clear glide path. Rather than sending the organic material to waste, MTM coordinated with a local community organization to donate the chipped wood as firewood for families in need—a small but meaningful sustainability win that mirrors our company’s values of environmental and social stewardship.

Phase 2: Soil Embankment Excavation
The second phase involved removing over 6,000 cubic yards of earthen material from a slope adjacent to the runway, expanding available landing clearance and improving drainage conditions. Our three-man team stripped and stockpiled topsoil, excavated subsoils, and reconstructed the area with proper compaction and final seeding for long-term stability. At the base of the newly graded slope, we installed a rock catch basin to slow and disperse stormwater, allowing runoff to dissipate naturally into the valley below.

Environmental Discipline and Precision Execution

While access challenges with private property added logistical constraints—airport airspace rights extended beyond the physical land boundaries—MTM’s crews navigated every obstacle with professionalism and adaptability. Despite daily 12–14 hour shifts and reduced daylight during late fall, the team maintained seamless operations through the use of light towers and careful equipment scheduling.

Equipment Utilized

Excavators | Bulldozers | Dump Trucks | Bucket Truck | Wood Chipper

Operational Performance

The project was executed over 32 working days with zero safety incidents and no schedule delays—proof that a highly skilled, compact crew can deliver large-scale results with efficiency and precision.

For Mountain Empire Airport, this work ensured compliance, safety, and clear skies ahead—another project completed with MTM’s trademark balance of technical capability and environmental integrity.