The Calgary Airport Authority has launched a major construction project to maintain the safety, security and efficiency of the airport. The work will ensure YYC is able to safely operate while meeting the demands of passenger and cargo traffic over the next 40 years.

At the same time, the work has implications for flight paths over Calgary and some residents are wondering why they’re seeing and hearing more planes above their homes than usual.

Here are some details to help Calgarians understand the activity underway:

WHAT IS HAPPENING? A major rehabilitation of the west runway will accommodate future growth and continue to enable Calgary’s airport to be a vital hub for the economic growth of the region.

The west runway was originally constructed in 1939 and designed for aircraft lighter than those used today. Numerous projects have been completed over the past 80+ years to maintain the structural capacity and to prolong the runway’s lifespan. However, studies completed in recent years have confirmed the runway will be reaching the end of its useful life and that full-depth structural and electrical rehabilitation is required.

At the same time, the runway environment will also be modernized, including approaches, lighting, and infrastructure.

HOW BIG IS THIS PROJECT? This is a significant project for Calgary that will create up to 300 local jobs. Transport Canada will provide up to $57.5 million of the total $115 million required to complete the project.  

WHY NOW? Assessments show that this work is essential for ensuring a safe, secure and efficient airport environment, especially considering the age of the runway. The timing of this work takes advantage of a slower-than-usual air travel period. Air traffic reductions due to COVID-19 mean runway closures and restrictions can occur without significantly impacting overall airport capacity or inconveniencing travellers.  

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE? The project will take 2-3 years to complete. Work is already underway on investigations and design with construction scheduled to begin in spring 2023.    

WHAT COMMUNITIES ARE AFFECTED BY CHANGES IN DEPARTURES AND ARRIVALS? Throughout the project, there will be increased use of the crosswind runway that places aircraft over parts of northwest Calgary and southeast Calgary. Those communities are experiencing a higher volume of traffic overhead while site investigations are underway. When rehabilitation begins, those communities will continue to see a change in activity.

WHAT IS BEING DONE TO REDUCE NOISE and NEIGHBOURHOOD DISTURBANCE? We are sensitive to the concerns of Calgarians and along with our partners, we strive to mitigate and minimize noise when possible. With more Calgarians working from home than ever before, residents may be more aware of planes flying above them.

The Authority will continue to work closely with community associations, government agencies and airlines to address noise concerns through a regular committee and we will continue to work with our neighbours and partners to balance their concerns with the demands and benefits of air travel and cargo transport.

HOW CAN I LEARN MORE ABOUT NOISE? Visit The Authority’s website for more information about aircraft noise management. Additional questions or concerns can be sent to concerns@yyc.com or by calling 403.735.1408.