United States Department of Transportation
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Aviation infrastructure : challenges associated with building and maintaining runways
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2000-10-05
[PDF-149.75 KB]
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Abstract:This testimony focuses on challenges associated with building new
runways and with ensuring that existing runways are properly maintained. Recent flight delays and cancellations as well as significant media attention to them have heightened public concern about the need to increase the capacity of the National Airspace System. Airport development is key to expanding capacity. However, building new airports is difficult, in part, because of the high cost of construction and the environmental impact of airports?particularly concerns about noise and air quality. The construction of new runways and the maintenance of existing runways are options for improving the capacity at existing airports. According to FAA, 24 of the nation?s 50 busiest commercial service airports have proposed, planned, or begun construction on new runways and runway extensions at an estimated cost of $6.5 billion. In addition, FAA provided $318 million in airport improvement grants to the 50 busiest commercial service airports for runway rehabilitation and maintenance between fiscal years 1995 and 1999. In considering options to expand capacity, policymakers face a challenge in determining where to invest federal dollars to bring about the greatest enhancements while considering the environmental impact on adjacent communities. The testimony, based largely on recently issued reports will highlight environmental and maintenance
challenges airports face, actions under way by FAA and the aviation industry to overcome these challenges, and additional actions that need to be taken.
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