Ballina Byron Gateway Airport’s runway will soon be overlayed as part of an essential maintenance program.
This project involves an asphalt overlay to the existing runway surface, and the installation of grooves into the finished surface.
“This maintenance will extend the runway’s lifespan by up to 10 years. The last overlay occurred in 2013,” explained Airport Manager Julie Stewart.
“The runway lighting system will also undergo a significant upgrade to a more efficient LED lighting system.”
The main runway overlay works will commence Monday 5 June and continue through to late July 2023 (weather permitting). During this time, the runway will be closed to normal operations from 9.20pm each evening to 5.50am the following morning.
“Aircraft will not be able to land or take off during this time, with the exception of helicopter emergency services,” said Ms Stewart.
“All aircraft operators have been notified of the works well in advance through a regulated aviation notification system. In the event of a flight delay, airlines will manage their schedules accordingly to meet the airport requirements.”
There should not be any impact to airport users throughout the project as airline schedules are catered for in the project delivery program. However, customers will see an increase in maintenance activities on the airfield both day and night throughout the project.
After the main overlay, there will be a pause in works while the surface cures. Crews will then install grooves on the runway surface to assist with runway friction and drainage. This part of the project is expected to be completed in November 2023. The new lighting will be commissioned in early December 2023.
Ballina Shire Council thanks the community and airport users for their patience and understanding while this essential maintenance is completed.
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