SANAC Issue Paper #11

ISSUE: Construct a parallel runway for "touch and go" operations

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: Over the past two to three years as COMAIR's student body increased in size, the need for repetitive field operations has increased substantially.  Touch and Go operations, full instrument approaches to touchdown and other syllabus requirements have put an increased burden on the main runway.  The close proximity of the center runway (only 1,200 feet to the south) increases the possibility of conflicting patterns, adds to confusion and causes heavy turbojet air carriers and light single engine training aircraft to fly uncomfortably close to one another.

Several options were examined to alleviate this situation and the best alternative was for the airport to construct a new parallel runway 4,300 feet south of the main runway and be considered independent with respect to flight operations.

The new runway, named 9R - 27L opened for operations on November 30, 1998.  A parallel taxiway will commence construction in the near future.

CONCLUSION: SANAC should remain sensitive to the needs of the local community with regard to reporting noise complaints.  These complaints should be tracked and correlated.  Analysis should be provided monthly to SANAC to ensure that airport changes and improvements realize their full potential.

RECOMMENDATION: Ensure that to the greatest extent possible all repetitive training aircraft use the new runway and avoid using the main runway.

SUB-COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Airport Authority

DATE PREPARED: February 8, 1999