Calls Arguments "Meritless"

Logan International Airport will get its new runway after all, if a federal appeals court decision holds. The court Friday called allegations made by runway opponents "meritless."

Several opponents of the new runway had challenged the FAA's plans to build it, saying noise and air pollution hadn't been taken into proper consideration. The groups, which included the South Shore Jet Pollution Council and Communities Against Runway Expansion, also claimed the FAA didn't follow the rules in selecting a contractor to analyze the runway's environmental impact.

There's no indication yet from attorneys for the runway opponents whether they'll appeal the ruling to the US Supreme Court.

Massachusetts Port Authority spokesman Jose Juves said the decision "marks another milestone in making Logan more efficient. This decision validates eight years of environmental analysis and public process."

The airport says the runway is needed to reduce delays caused by heavy cross-winds. Under FAA guidelines, the new runway would only be used when winds were from the northwest or southeast at ten knots or more.

Logan's plans to add the sixth runway aren't out of the woods yet, though. One case in state court is now under appeal. Another case was rejected, but the plaintiffs have yet to announce their decision on whether to continue the suit.

FMI: www.massport.com/logan