West Runway Rehabilitation 

Work is underway on a complete removal and replacement of the west runway at YYC.

In August2021, Calgary Airports announced a $200-million major runway rehabilitation project for YYC’s West Runway, supported by $57.5-million from the federal Airport Critical Infrastructure Program (ACIP). This project will create an estimated 300 construction jobs, reinforcing YYC’s role as a key driver of Calgary’s economy.

Why it’s needed

Originally built in 1939, the west runwaywasdesignedfor aircraft lighter than those in use today. Over the past 80 years, Calgary Airports has implemented many upgrades to maintain structural integrity and prolong its lifespan. However, recent studies confirmed the runway would be reaching the end of its useful life — prompting a full rehabilitation.

This project includes major safety, regulatory, and environmental enhancementsincluding:

  • Materialsrecycling (80 per cent), including asphalt, concrete and gravel
  • LED electrical upgrades for improved energy efficiency
  • Storm infrastructureupgradesbeneath the runwayto boost climate resilience
  • Carbon entrapment technology integrated into newconcrete
  • Runway End Safety Areas to meet modern aviation standards

This project ensuresYYC remains safe, efficient, and future-ready—capable of supporting growing passenger and cargo traffic for the next 40 years.

 

Construction commencedin April 2024 and will continue in phases until December 2025.

Phase 1

Phase 1 of the West Runway Rehabilitation project was completed on time, despite challenging weather and water restrictions in Calgary.

During Phase 1, crews removed 13,000 cubic meters of asphalt, which will be reused throughout the project to help YYC meet our goal to reuse 80% of materials. Concrete from the existing runway was also crushed and reused in the rebuilding of the runway, with paving having begun in early July.

Construction of two new service roads has also progressed on schedule. Key runway sections are being removed, crushed and reused, while new shoulders, drainage and manholes are being installed. Phase 1 also focused on the addition of safety areas on both the south and north ends of the runway. These safety areas are regulatory requirements and were prioritized during this initial phase. 

Phase 2 - 4

Phase 2 of construction officially began on July 15, 2024, closing the intersection of runways 17R-35L (West Runway) and 11-29 (Crosswind Runway) for rehabilitation.

This phase was reviewed and approved in 2022 alongside significant consultation with NAV Canada, airlines and cargo partners. The decision to close the Crosswind Runway was made based on historical wind data showing low wind risks in July, August and September. If winds exceed 15 knots, operators may use parallel runways, hold or divert.

In Phase 2, a shortened West Runway will be available for arrivals on 35L and departures on 17R. NAV Canada will direct usage of the shortened runway to maintain the commercial schedule and airfield capacity. During this phase, communities in northwest Calgary might experience reduced number of aircraft over their neighbourhoods in comparison to the increase in flights during Phase 1. Following the completion of Phase 2, the Crosswind Runway will reopen. This will mean that three total runways will be operational at that time with the reduced West Runway still available for utilization.

During Phase 3 construction crews will work to finish the northern section of the West Runway, with the goal of it being fully open over the winter months.

In Phase 4, the whole West Runway will be closed in order to allow for required regulatory inspections.

Phase 4 was completed ahead of schedule and the runway was reopened in December 2024.

Winter break 2024/2025

During the winter months construction will halted and all runways at YYC returned to full operation.

Phase 5 - 9

Construction resumed on March 31, 2025.

The West Runway is expected to remain closed through phases 5 – 9.

During this construction season, crews will focus on the middle and southern portions of the runway. Throughout the 2025 construction season, the Crosswind Runway will remain open along with the Runway 17L-35R (East Runway).

Community information sessions 2025

In February 2025, Calgary Airports hosted information sessions to update local communities on the project and address questions about potential changes to aircraft movements for the upcoming construction season. Sessions were held as follows:

  • Feb. 18, 2025: 6 - 8 p.m. – Crossroads Community Association (1803 14 Ave NE)
  • Feb. 19, 2025: 6 - 8 p.m. – Vivo for Healthier Generations (11950 Country Village Link NE)
  • Feb. 20, 2025: 6 - 8 p.m. – Vivo for Healthier Generations (11950 Country Village Link NE)
  • Feb. 25, 2025: 6 - 8 p.m. – Genesis Centre (7555 Falconridge Blvd NE)
  • Feb. 26, 2025: 6 - 8 p.m. – Genesis Place (800 East Lake Blvd NE, Airdrie, AB)

Calgary Airports values the opportunity to engage with community members and provide updates on this vital infrastructure project. We extend our appreciation to surrounding communities for their patience and understanding, particularly regarding any changes in aircraft noise during construction. Projects like the West Runway Rehabilitation are essential to YYC and our city’s growth, supporting local employment and Calgary’s global connectivity.