Calgary International Airport’s expansion plans anticipate the needs of a growing population

Two major infrastructure projects are under construction at the Calgary International Airport. The first is known as the “Airport Trail” tunnel and the second is the runway expansion program of the Calgary Airport Authority. Both are undertaken by CH2M HILL’s Transportation Business Group.

The Airport Trail is a $295 million project that gives vehicles arriving at the airport from south or east a more convenient access. It is 620 metres long and is quite unique because it will be constructed under the expanded runway. Thus, those en route to the airport will not have to go through Deerfoot Trail which is operating over its intended capacity. Monstrous traffic can be encountered in this inner-city expressway during peak hours—something that the Airport Trail can alleviate.

Calgary Airport Authority’s runway expansion project will be constructed over the top of the Airport Trail. Its existing runway is only 12,670 feet but the new runway will be much longer at 14,000 feet. Once constructed, it will be the country’s longest civil aviation runway. Since air traffic controllers can operate both runways at the same time, air traffic will increase. The completion will also usher in fewer flight delays and lesser cancellations because of foggy weather conditions. Construction of the new runway also improve business for courier companies , as they are assured that they can make their deliveries on time.

The projects are set for completion in May 2014. The benefits may not immediately be felt, but as Calgary grows and expands, the people will be thankful that the administration foresaw its utility.