The resurfacing of Chennai airport’s secondary runway, which commenced nearly two years ago, is now nearing completion, bringing enhanced safety measures.

Progress on Chennai Airport’s Secondary Runway

Chennai airport boasts two runways—a primary runway spanning 12,000 ft and a secondary runway measuring 9,000 ft.

The primary runway caters to the majority of flight operations, while the secondary runway is utilized solely on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Commencing in early 2021, the resurfacing work on the secondary runway is projected to conclude within the next two months.

Officials from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) assert that this resurfacing effort was indispensable to eliminate accumulated rubber deposits and facilitate smoother landings for aircraft, thereby maintaining optimal safety standards.

Phases of the Resurfacing Work

The resurfacing work was executed in three distinct phases. Upon completion, the airport will be able to implement cross-runway operations, enabling simultaneous flight operations on both runways.

This resurfacing initiative marks the first comprehensive maintenance effort in nearly a decade. The Directorate-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) conducted an inspection three years ago, revealing substantial wear and tear on the pavement. Consequently, the decision to undertake the resurfacing project was finalized.

Initially, plans were made to extend the secondary runway’s length to approximately 11,000 feet. However, due to various challenges, the length had to be curtailed to 9,000 feet, as reported by The Hindu.

Authorities have assured that necessary measures have been implemented to address any obstructions in the approach path, ensuring safe and unhindered operations.

Tags: Chennai Airport, Airports Authority of India (AAI), Secondary Runway, Directorate-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)