YYC’s major projects
Running one of the country’s busiest airports is a big job. To do it in the best possible way, we routinely perform major improvement projects with careful consideration for operations and community impacts.
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. Announced in August 2021, this $201 million major construction project is receiving $57.5 million from the federal Airport Critical Infrastructure Program. It will create an estimated 300 construction jobs, enabling The Authority to further contribute to strengthening Calgary’s economy.
The scope of the project includes the removal and replacement of the west runway, which involves full-depth structural and electrical rehabilitation. At the same time, the runway environment will also be modernized, including approaches, lighting and infrastructure. 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 a full rehabilitation is necessary.
Construction commenced April 2024 and will continue in phases until December 2025.
Community Impact
Throughout the project, there will be increased use of the crosswind runway that places aircraft over parts of northwest Calgary and southeast Calgary. During the expedited periods of construction, those communities will experience a higher volume of traffic overhead.
We are sensitive to the concerns of Calgarians and along with our partners, we strive to mitigate and minimize noise when possible. We thank them in advance for their patience and support as we make the updates needed to keep air travel safe and to help grow our economy.
The Authority will continue to work closely with community associations, government agencies and airlines to address noise concerns through our regular consultation committee so we may balance resident concerns with the demands and benefits of air travel and cargo transport.
Project Partners
After an extensive evaluation process, the Calgary Airport Authority selected PCL Construction as our Construction Manager for this critical multi-phase project.
“A project of this scale and cost is a critical part of YYC’s future as one of Canada’s busiest travel and cargo hubs,” said Chris Miles, VP Operations & Infrastructure. “ PCL has industry leading experience, and we are confident in their ability to work together with the Authority to deliver the rehabilitated West Runway safely and securely.”