Calgary Airport Authority’s West Runway rehabilitation project to deliver widespread benefits to YYC
The Calgary Airport Authority (The Authority) is paving the way for a better, more sustainable future through a major capital project at YYC Calgary International Airport that will set a benchmark for future airport developments across Canada while delivering significant benefits to YYC and southern Alberta.
The West Runway Rehabilitation (WRR) project will be one of the first airport projects in the country to seek certification under the Envision® framework, which assesses the sustainability of infrastructure projects across a wide range of criteria.
The Authority commenced Phase 1 construction of the two-year, CAD201-million capital project in Apr-2024. The project scope comprises removal and replacement of the West Runway, including full-depth structural and electrical rehabilitation and modernisation of approaches, lighting and infrastructure.
In support of the project, the Government of Canada is providing CAD57.5 million through the federal Airport Critical Infrastructure Program, with the remaining CAD143.5 million being fully funded by The Authority.
Following is a brief overview of this critical infrastructure project.
- Calgary Airport Authority commenced Phase 1 construction of the two-year, CAD201-million capital project in Apr-2024.
- The project scope comprises removal and replacement of the West Runway.
- This includes full-depth structural and electrical rehabilitation and modernisation of approaches, lighting and infrastructure.
- In support of the project, the Government of Canada is providing CAD57.5 million through the federal Airport Critical Infrastructure Program, with the remaining CAD143.5 million being fully funded by The Authority.
Strategic importance
The West Runway was originally constructed in 1939, primarily catering to aircraft significantly lighter than today's models. Numerous projects have been completed over the past 80 years to maintain the structural capacity and to prolong its lifespan. However, studies completed in recent years have confirmed the runway was reaching the end of its useful life and that a full rehabilitation would be necessary.
Sustainable approach
A dedication to sustainability encompasses every aspect of the project, from construction to day-to-day operations, ensuring comprehensive environmental, social, and economic benefits.
By blending innovation with environmental stewardship, The Authority is proving that progress and sustainability can go hand in hand.
A significant component of the project's eco-friendly strategy involves recycling 80 per cent of concrete and asphalt from the existing runway. By reusing these materials, The Authority minimises waste and reduces the demand for new resources, thereby lowering the carbon footprint associated with the production and transportation of new materials.
The new runway will use concrete with carbon entrapment technology, an innovative approach that significantly reduces emissions. Additionally, the runway will be equipped with energy-efficient LED lighting, further decreasing energy consumption and related emissions, making the runway both smarter and greener.
Community impact
Effective stakeholder engagement is key to the project's success.
The Authority has worked closely with community associations, government agencies and airlines to share information and address concerns, in particular issues related to increased noise levels over parts of the city due to changing aircraft patterns.
In response, dedicated noise monitoring systems have been installed to track changes in noise volumes.
The Authority continues to take steps to minimise noise levels where possible while balancing the need to keep air travel safe and meet increasing demand for air travel and cargo transport.
Economic opportunties
The WRR project isn't just about construction; it's about creating opportunities.
With approximately 300 jobs in the pipeline, local workers and specialists in various fields will have a chance to contribute. Additionally, the project's ripple effect means more business for local suppliers and service providers.
Combined with YYC's strategic location in Western Canada, a rehabilitated West Runway will maintain YYC as a central hub connecting passengers and goods with the surrounding region, driving investment and economic growth for the city of Calgary and the province of Alberta for decades to come.