SANAC Issue Paper #1
ISSUE: Extend Runway 18-36
BACKGROUND: At the May 12, 1998 SANAC meeting this issue was one of thirty-eight issues brought forward as a noise reduction idea by members of the public.
ANALYSIS/DISCUSSION: Currently Orlando Sanford Airport has four (4) runways. The designations are:
| 9L - 27R | 9,600 ft x 150 ft | air carrier certified |
| 9C - 27C | 3,578 ft x 75 ft | general aviation |
| 9R - 27L | 3,500 ft x 75 ft | general aviation |
| 18 - 36 | 6,000 ft x 150 ft | air carrier certified |
Of the four runways mentioned above, two are air carrier certified. Runway 9L - 27R is considered the airport's main runway because of it's length. The crosswind runway (also called alternate) is 18 - 36. A fundamental rule of thumb in runway construction is that a crosswind runway should be about eighty percent (80%) of the main runway in length. With our main runway length at 9,600 (with plans to extend to 12,000 feet), the crosswind runway should be extended to about 7,680 - 9,600 feet. This basic rule of thumb is to ensure that aircraft which normally operate out of this field can still land in adverse crosswind situations.
CONCLUSION: Consideration should be given to extending runway 18 - 36. This additional length will ensure safe operations in adverse wind situations where the main runway is not usable.
RECOMMENDATION: Future airport master plans should evaluate extension of runway 18 - 36 to ensure safe operations of all aircraft.
SUB-COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Airport Authority
DATE PREPARED: October 8, 1999