Refurbishment of Runway 2

Design: 2023-2024

Work supervision and safety coordination: 2024

The rehabilitation of runway RWY 25 (Runway 2) represented an intervention of high operational and engineering complexity.

The runway, with a flexible asphalt pavement and dimensions of 3,307 × 45 m, is suitable for operations by aircraft classified as EASA Code “Foxtrot – F” and is designated as Code Number 4.

Following inspections and coring campaigns, extraordinary maintenance and pavement renewal works became necessary.

RWY 25 is equipped with a 60 × 150 m clearway in the west direction and a 160 m RESA, elements that required particular attention in the planning of the operational phases.

The works initially involved the upgrading of the RESA (runway end safety area), carried out through continuous nighttime operations for 35 days. Subsequently, in just 18 days—ahead of the estimated schedule—the entire runway pavement was rehabilitated:

• Milling of 13 cm of existing pavement;
• Upgrading AVL lights;
• Laying of new asphalt mixtures: binder course (8 cm) and wearing course (5 cm), for a total thickness of 13 cm on the runway;
• Laying of a 5 cm wearing course on taxiway;
• Installation of markings

The works involved particularly complex and challenging operations. Prior to the start of the runway rehabilitation, the RESA and the section from threshold 07 to the Alpha clearance edge were upgraded during nighttime hours, always ensuring full daytime operability of the runway. Subsequently, works on the runway were carried out under a full closure: in just 18 days, 44,115 tonnes of asphalt concrete were laid, allowing the project to be completed ahead of the originally estimated schedule.

The intervention was a success in coordination between design and construction supervision, the result of effective planning that made it possible to complete the works ahead of schedule, demonstrating high organizational and technical capabilities in managing an airport construction site of considerable complexity.