Dubai Airports has confirmed plans to close Dubai International airport’s southern runway for 45 days in 2019 to conduct an upgrade.
The airport says that while ongoing maintenance is scheduled on a weekly basis, constant use by predominantly wide-body aircraft means the runway requires more extensive works, which will include complete resurfacing and replacement of the airfield ground lighting and supporting infrastructure.
The refurbishment project will involve the replacement of around 60,000 tonnes of asphalt and 8,000 cubic metres of concrete, according to Dubai Airports. Works will also include the installation of 800km of cables and the replacement of more than 5,500 runway lights to more economic and environmentally friendly technology.
Dubai Airports says the works will take place from 16 April to 30 May next year, a period in which traffic has historically dipped due to a “seasonal lull”. During the closure, airlines will be required to reduce their operations to and from Dubai International.
As with a similar upgrade to the northern runway in 2014, Dubai World Central airport says it will be available to assist affected flight schedules as well as chartered flights, cargo and general aviation operations.
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said: “In the months ahead we will be working closely with Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects, airlines and other stakeholders to ensure we optimise service and capacity during this period next year and minimise the impact on our customers. While we regret any inconvenience this may cause to our airline customers and our passengers, these upgrade are absolutely necessary to heighten safety, boost capacity and pave the way for future growth.”
The airport says more information will be made available as plans develop and as flight schedules are finalised.
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