Southern California’s Ontario International Airport (ONT) has completed a 90 million USD runway rehabilitation project, marking a significant enhancement in safety for millions of travellers.
The project, which spanned two years beginning in February 2023, involved extensive upgrades to the airport’s southernmost runway (8R-26L).
Key work included:
- Removal of old concrete
- Repaving 80,000 square yards of the runway
- Rehabilitation and elimination of adjacent taxiways
- Construction of new Taxiway S8
- Installation of LED lighting
This undertaking ensures the airport remains a safe and modern facility for commercial and cargo operations.
Out of the 90 million USD total cost, approximately 67 million USD was funded by grants from the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Improvement Program (AIP). The remaining funds were covered by ONT’s operational revenues.
Alan D. Wapner, president of the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) Board of Commissioners said:We want to thank Congresswoman Norma Torres, our elected leadership in Washington, D.C., and our regulatory partners for their tireless efforts in securing the funding needed to bring this important project to conclusion. Their unwavering support of Ontario International Airport has allowed us to address critical needs, invest in airport operations and create an unparalleled travel experience for one of the most vibrant population and economic centres in the United States.
The completion of this project comes amid 42 consecutive months of year-over-year passenger growth at Ontario International. The airport is projected to serve over 7 million passengers in 2024, reflecting a 75% increase since it returned to local ownership in 2016.
ONT also ranks among the Top 10 cargo airports in the United States.
Atif Elkadi, OIAA chief executive officer said:We appreciate all of the support we have received, from our Congressional leaders, our airline and business partners, and, of course, this dynamic region we serve. It is an honour, too, to be able to fulfil the vision, passion and commitment of our Board of Commissioners as we connect the world to the Inland Empire – the new heart of Southern California.
