Boston Logan International will be closing longest runway for improvements

The Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) will close Runway 15R-33L, its longest runway, for improvements to the runway safety, light and surface conditions. The project will begin on Aug. 14 and run for approximately 100 days.

Runway 15R-33L is primarily used by the FAA during northwest winds which are most prevalent during the winter and spring. The runway is preferred over the Boston Harbor runway due to noise abatement purposes. The runway was last rehabilitated in 2012 and the project will bring about much-needed safety improvements.

The runway will be closed to all aircraft arrivals and departures. The improvements to the lighting and surface conditions are in line with FAA requirements. The work will be completed in phases. The project will replace the pavement and improve runway and taxiway intersections, upgrade electrical infrastructure and convert runway lights to more sustainable LEDs.

The construction will begin in August, which was determined in coordination with the FAA and airline stakeholders while keeping the Sumner Tunnel closure in mind. In the first weeks of the closure the pavement will be removed and the electrical elements will be installed. Most of the pavement will be installed in September and October.

There are comprehensive measures in place to reduce the noise from construction and its impact on the local communities. There will be noise reductions from truck backup alarms, still within OSHA guidelines and regulations. The crews will maximize daytime work, noisier aspects in particular. Airside haul routes will be established to maximize the distance from nearby homes. Waste and materials will be hauled during the day if possible. Trucks will be prohibited from using the streets in Boston to and from the airport and all construction will access the airport from different, approved routes. Lighting for night work will also be directed away from the communities to impose less impact on the residents and businesses.

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As part of the improvements, changes will be made to multiple taxiway intersections in a nationwide effort to reduce the risk of aircraft runway incursions and enhance safety. The FAA is working to improve runway conditions across the country and mitigate the risk of incursions in the wake of a spike in recent years. In May the FAA gave over $100 million to 12 airports to reconfigure confusing taxiways, install airfield lighting or construct new taxiways to provide better flexibility on the airfield.