The Metropolitan Airports Commission has an annual program for improving pavements on existing MAC runways, taxiways and aprons at MSP to maintain the airport's performance and safety.

Image of NWA Airlink Aircraft Close up The MAC has reconstructed 2,000 feet of the crosswind runway (4/22) to replace deteriorating pavement originally built in the early 1960's. The south parallel runway (12R/30L) was temporarily extended by 900 feet to accommodate aircraft needing a longer runway while the reconstruction of the crosswind runway (4/22) was underway.

Over the past several years all four ends of the parallel runways have been reconstructed. This leaves the center sections of both runways, about 2,000 feet long, of the parallel runways (12R/30L and 12L/30R) that need to be reconstructed. The center section of Runway 12R/30L is slated for reconstruction in 2007 and the center portion of 12L/30R is scheduled for reconstruction in 2008.

Reconstruction and relocation of several taxiways that are between the parallel runways began in 2005 in order to improve ground movements of aircraft. It will take 3 years to completely replace and improve these critical taxiways.

Aircraft apron reconstruction has been underway at MSP since the mid-1980s to replace deteriorating pavements. Aprons are where aircraft park for various reasons, such as loading and unloading of passengers. Each year a portion of the apron around the Lindbergh Terminal is slated for replacement. Coordination with the affected airlines is critical to the successful replacement of the apron and getting the gates back in service as soon as possible.

Improved runway approach guidance systems have also been installed on both parallel runways and are being installed on new Runway 17/35. Aircraft guidance systems enhance the safety for landing aircraft and keep the airport operational during poor visibility. The approach system improvements allow aircraft to land with less than a 1/10th mile visibility.

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Image of workers installing runway lighting

Image of workers installing runway lighting close up