Mangaluru airport re-carpets 2.4 km long runway in 75 days

Mangaluru: In a significant achievement, Mangaluru International Airport has successfully carried out the re-carpeting work on its 2.45 kilometre-long runway. The project aimed at meeting aviation safety regulations, was completed in 75 days, according to the Airport authorities. What makes the re-carpeting project unique is the innovative technique used, as it is the first-ever flexible overlay of asphalt on a rigid runway in India. The airport had initiated the preliminary survey work for the ambitious project on January 27.

As the second busiest airport in Karnataka, Mangaluru International Airport handles approximately 36 aircraft movements daily. To ensure minimal disruption to flight services, the airport implemented an 8-1/2 hour NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) period from 9.30 am to 6 pm each day for re-carpeting works.  

A total of 81,696 tonnes of asphalt, equivalent to laying 82 kilometers of road, utilizing 80 sophisticated pieces of equipment was used for re-carpeting the runway.

 “The airport executive leadership has lauded the airport team for completing the project ahead of schedule. The leadership has also thanked the people of the region and the administration for their unwavering support and understanding for coping with the altered travel timings to make MIA the safest tabletop airport in India,” the airport spokesperson said.