Runway Extensions Allow DFW Airport To Attract More International Flights

DFW International Airport has reopened the expanded Runway 18R/36L, which will accommodate large, long haul airlines that serve Asia Pacific and other major destinations around the world.

The 2,012-foot extension brings the runway to 13,400 feet and became operational at 6:41 a.m. (Thursday). The first plane to land at 6:57 a.m. was American Airlines Flight 102, a Boeing 767, from Honolulu.

Construction of the project was completed on time and approximately $500,000 under budget. The $25.55 million runway and taxiway project is funded in part by $10,305,198 in FAA grant money.

DFW has received more than $49 million in grants from the FAA for the 18L, 18R and 17C improvement projects.

"The continued extension of runways at DFW is a key element in our ability to attract additional international flights," said Jeff Fegan, DFW Chief Executive Officer. "Longer runways keep us competitive with other airports. These extensions and our new International Terminal D reflect DFW Airport's position as a critical gateway to the world."

With the runway expansions, fully loaded widebody aircraft can take off with cargo or passengers without restrictions on the time of year due to weather and temperature.

"As airlines come into existence the need for longer runways will be critical, and these expansions eliminate any restrictions," Fegan said.

In August 2002, DFW completed a similar extension at Runway 18L/35R. An extension of Runway 17C/35C, which will also extend the runway to 13,400 feet, is scheduled to start in January 2004 and be completed in September 2005.

The project also furthers DFW's goal of reducing delays to aircraft operations and increasing its overall aircraft operation efficiency.

Other project elements slated for completion between Oct. 30 and Nov. 30, 2003 include corresponding final NAVAID relocations, two cross taxiways between the extension of Runway 18R and Runway 18L, High Speed Exit E3 from Runway 18R (at Taxiway WK) to Taxiway E, and the extension of Taxiway E from Taxiway Y to Taxiway WG. Construction activity also included grading, drainage, pavement markings, electrical installations and relocation of utilities.

Runway extension facts:

• The runway extension will improve aircraft movement to the terminals and ensure that the west airfield runways retain balanced arrival/departure capability.
• The extended runway will also allow all aircraft types to use Land-And-Hold-Short-Operations (LAHSO) procedures.
• The high-speed exit E3 project will provide improved access to the terminal area.
• Huitt-Zollars, with subconsultants Aviation Alliance and Garcia & Associates, prepared the design. Huitt-Zollars, with subconsultant Paragon Project Resources, is providing construction management and quality assurance inspection.
• Approximately 50,000 tons of DFW recycled concrete has been used.
• Approximately 30,000 cubic yards of dirt from the DFW Soil Storage Area has been used.
• Minority & Women Owned Business (M/WBE) participation in construction is approximately 26 percent.

About DFW Airport

Located halfway between the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas, DFW International Airport is the world's third busiest, serving 54 million passengers a year. Offering nearly 2,000 flights daily, DFW Airport provides nonstop service to 135 domestic and 32 international destinations worldwide.

FMI: www.dfwairport.com