Boeing Field’s Essential General Aviation Runway Reopens Post Extensive Rehabilitation
King County International Airport/Boeing Field (KBFI) has triumphantly reopened its crucial smaller runway, a lifeline for general aviation operations, following a thorough six-month rehabilitation project. The 3,709-foot runway 14L/32R serves as the primary general aviation runway at the bustling Seattle-area airport.
The extensive project encompassed a complete pavement rehabilitation of the 20-year-old runway surface, realignment of taxiways to meet current FAA design standards, and a comprehensive upgrade of runway lighting to energy-efficient LEDs. Airport officials meticulously coordinated with the project, often closing the larger runway from 10 p.m. to 3:45 a.m. to provide safety buffers for construction crews.
The reopening was marked by a ceremonial event featuring Beta Technologies’ electric Alia CTOL aircraft making the inaugural landing on the new pavement. This significant event symbolizes the future of aviation technology. The upgraded runway will initially close at dusk until precision approach path indicator (PAPI) lights can be flight-checked and fully operational.
Source: Flying Magazine