Finavia is set to begin major renovation works on Helsinki Airport (HEL)’s runway 3, with all operations on the runway ceasing between 15 April and 12 June.
The renovation, which will see aircraft taking off and landing from different directions across the airport for the near eight-week closure, includes extensive surface repairs of taxiways leading to the main runway as well as significant works carried out for lighting systems throughout the area.
Finavia’s Vice President Jani Elasmaa, says:The structures of the runway have to be first-class due to the enormous load the runway is subjected to. Regular renovations and inspections ensure safe and punctual air traffic.
In April, the repair work will begin with the closure of runway 3 and the dismantling of the lights in the areas where repairs will be carried out. Then the earthworks and asphalting work will begin on the taxiways and parts of the runway. Finally, we will install lights and perform runway maintenance.
For the duration of the works, departing flights will take off from runway 1 (22L) to the southwest, using flight paths published for low-noise air traffic or directions provided by air traffic control, with all flights directed in the same direction as their usual departure paths from runway 3. Landings will primarily be made on runway 2 (15/33) for all aircraft approaching from the northwest, and runway 1 from the northeast.
Vice President Jani Elasmaa concludes:The Helsinki Airport’s other two runways will be in use throughout the renovation and will ensure sufficient flight capacity. The renovation of runway 3 is an important part of the lifecycle management of Helsinki Airport’s infrastructure, and we are taking all steps to complete the work by mid-June.
