Four runways will be closed for reconstruction through November 2019 at New York City, NY, USA’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). Runway 13L-31R is responsible for handling approximately 1/3 of arrivals at JFK. Officials will be widening the runway by 33%. It will be repaved with solid concrete that will be more resilient than the existing asphalt.
The overhaul will also include the installation of new lights, signs, cables, navigational aids and the creation of new high-speed taxiways to enable aircraft to exit the runway more quickly. JFK terminal operators said, “The Port Authority has continued to work extensively with the airport community in preparation for the runway reconstruction, which will directly impact all terminals and airlines. All JFK terminal operators understand the importance of this critical runway work.”
The new runway will have a lifespan of around 40 years, as opposed to 8 to 12 years with conventional asphalt. As for air traffic at the busy facility, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Port Authority of New York and New Jersey officials have developed a strategic plan to manage aircraft traffic, maximize efficiency and reduce delays at the airport.
Kevin O’Toole, Chairman-Port Authority, stated, “The Port Authority recognizes the need for infrastructure upgrades to improve the customer’s flight experience and to better maintain and operate our facilities and assets. This project is critical to achieve those goals, and we are working to ensure minimal impact while the reconstruction is underway.”
In total, the reconstruction plan is expected to create 3,340 total job years, $251.8 million in payroll wages, and $608.6 million in economic activity. JFK boasts more than 61 million customer arrivals annually and handles more than 455,000 flights a year.
For the Travel Pulse Online article titled “New York City’s JFK Airport Closing One Runway for Reconstruction”, please go to: https://www.travelpulse.com/news/airlines/new-york-citys-jfk-airport-closing-one-runway-for-reconstruction.html
Home photo: JetBlue’s Terminal 5 at
JFK International Airport. (photo via JetBlue)