VVIP Movements

The common reason for closed runway is VVIP movement at the airport. When high-profile individuals travel from one country to another, they often use personal jets, charter flights, or commercial flights. At least 15 minutes before the VVIP’s landing, the runway is closed for the next 45 minutes or longer depending on the situation. This closure can occur when a local VVIP travels internationally, when an international VVIP visits, or even when a local VVIP travels domestically. Civil aviation authorities declare a no-fly zone when a VVIP is present.

Runway Construction

Closed Runway may occur due to runway length extensions to accommodate larger aircraft or increased traffic, taxiway reconstruction, or runway site infrastructure adjustments. Upgrades to the runway lighting system to improve visibility and facilitate smoother landings are also common. Additionally, repainting runway markings, including centerlines, touchdown zones, and taxiway intersections, is necessary. Upgrading drainage systems to prevent standing water on the runway surface and reduce the risk of hydroplaning is also important.

Weather Conditions

Weather can create unpredictable environments at any time. When heavy rain, lightning, thunderstorms, tornadoes, or other natural disasters occur, air traffic authorities declare runway closures. Flooding caused by natural disasters can interrupt aircraft landing and takeoff operations.

Aircraft Collision

On January 5, 2024, a Japan Airlines (JAL) Airbus 350 aircraft collided with a Japan Coast Guard aircraft at Haneda International Airport in Tokyo. This collision occurred on the runway, leading to its closure from January 5 to January 8. Runways may also close if an aircraft makes an emergency landing due to technical problems or for belly landings. In such cases, the runway is closed for aircraft removal, inspection, and debris clearance before reopening for other aircraft operations. Timely repair of runway damage is essential for the smooth operation of the airport.

Runway Cracks

Runway cracks may result from aircraft collisions, emergency landings, or belly landings. Additionally, very old runways may develop cracks due to heavy landings by large aircraft such as the Airbus 350, 380, Boeing 747, 788, etc. Runway cracks may also be caused by earthquakes and natural disasters. Changes in the underlying soil or subgrade settling can lead to uneven runway pavement, resulting in crack formation as the surface adjusts to shifting ground conditions.

Meteorological Warning

Runway closures occur when a Red Meteorological Warning is declared. Red meteorological warnings are issued when low visibility due to fog, heavy rain, snow, or ice; high winds exceeding safe operating limits; thunderstorms or lightning in the vicinity; or flooding or standing water on the runway occur. Runway visibility is very poor or below 900 meters during red meteorological warnings.

Airport Services Not Open

Medium and small-sized airports may experience service shortages, leading to temporary closures. Typically, closures occur from midnight to early morning. Service shortages result in reduced aircraft landings and takeoffs. Airport authorities may not benefit from odd-hour operations. Geographical location can also lead to temporary closures. Unexpected events such as severe weather conditions, security incidents, or technical issues may force airports to suspend services for the safety and security of passengers and staff.

Maintenance

Runway maintenance is scheduled to ensure smooth takeoffs and landings. Regular inspections assess the condition of runway surfaces, markings, lighting systems, and surrounding areas. Vegetation near runways is regularly trimmed to prevent obstruction of navigation aids, approach paths, or runway surfaces. Measures are implemented to deter birds and other wildlife from congregating near runways, as bird strikes pose a significant risk to aircraft safety. Runway closures are scheduled for maintenance purposes.

Security Hazard

Runway closures occur when unauthorized individuals enter runway areas without permission, posing security risks. Authorities may close runways in the event of a terrorist attack or threat. Similarly, runway closures may occur due to political unrest. Foreign object debris (FOD) on runways, such as loose debris, tools, or equipment, can pose hazards during takeoff and landing. Runway incursions occur when aircraft, vehicles, or people enter protected runway areas without authorization.

Air Traffic Control

Changes in airspace configuration or traffic flow management may require runway closures to optimize efficiency or accommodate increased traffic volume during peak hours. Runway closures may occur due to staffing shortages or operational issues in control towers. During special events or airshows, runways may be closed. Some airports have multiple runways that can be configured differently depending on wind direction and traffic flow, leading to runway closures by air traffic control.