Runway revitalization underway at Regina airport

A different version of Project Runway is underway in Regina.

The Regina Airport Authority announced Monday the start of a $26-million airfield revitalization that’s scheduled to run until mid-September.

The project will involved the rehabilitation of the main runway at the airport, meaning all flights will use the facility’s secondary runway. According to the authority, airlines were involved in the planning of the project and adjusted their schedules to make sure service wasn’t interrupted over the summer.

As a result of the work being done, people may notice heavier aircraft traffic in some areas of the city and less in others. The authority said that’s because all of the takeoffs and landings will be limited to one runway instead of two.

The airport authority said the project is to feature:

• Pavement rehabilitation on the main runway and a taxiway;
• Drainage improvements;
• Replacement of runway edge lighting and associated electrical infrastructure;
• Installation of a SALSAR approach lighting system for the main runway; and
• Installation of Runway End Safety Areas (RESAs) on the main and secondary runways.

“This is an important capital project for YQR and we’re happy to have it underway after pandemic-related delays,” Justin Reves, the authority’s director of revenue development, public relations and customer experience, said in a media release.

“This type of work happens every 10 to 15 years and will ensure both the ongoing safety of our main runway as well as a smoother experience for pilots and travellers.”

Funding for the project is being provided through the Government of Canada’s Airport Critical Infrastructure Program and from the Regina Airport Authority itself.