The DFW International Airport board accepted Oklahoma City-based Chesapeake Energy Corp.'s bid to explore for Barnett Shale gas under 18,000 acres of airport property. Chesapeake's winning offer was $181 million initially and a royalty of 25% on all gas produced after the lease is approved by the Dallas and Fort Worth city councils.

"Chesapeake will partner with DFW to open possibly one of the largest single lease opportunities remaining in the Barnett Shale, and our airport, our passengers, our owner cities and the North Texas economy will be the direct benefactors," says Jeff Fegan, chief executive of DFW. "It is truly a win-win for the region and our economy."

All drilling activities require permits from DFW, and must be approved by the FAA. The drilling will have no impact on airfield operations, Fegan says.



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