Maui, like Kona, Lihue, and previously HNL, is in need of major renovations, including its main runway 2-20. It is reported that it has been renovated five times since it was built in 1942. But the last major construction work that we know of happened almost 20 years ago.
Pending runway construction has been on hold for years.
Five years ago, the state was preparing an environmental impact report for the Maui airstrip reconstruction project, scheduled to be released in 2020. At the time, the state estimated the multi-year new runway project could cost up to four billionths of a dollar. A start date for the project was not determined. The cost of the work was to be paid for by airfare and federal funds.
Bandaid approach to Hawaii’s second largest airport.
Four years ago, the Hawaii Department of Transportation tackled problems with taxiway intersections that were “severely rutted, causing the asphalt pavement surface to sag and dent, causing aircraft to become stuck.” Milling and overlays are required every few months. repairs were needed and permanent repairs were urgently needed,” said Goodfellow Brothers, the contractor who completed the interim repairs.
And in 2022, the state will went to bid A construction project to repave 5,000 feet of Runway 2-20, “including milling, paving, crack sealing, and new markings.” I am not aware of any follow-up information since then.
In the meantime, the runway is being safely maintained through a series of ongoing resurfacing projects to address cracks, potholes, and ongoing deterioration of joints. The constant concern is that debris on the runway could damage the aircraft. The state Department of Transportation and FAA said the project is a priority.
The massive $3 billion airport plan includes the reconstruction of the main runway (2-20).
Seven years on, the latest update to the OGG Master Plan states: “The Master Plan Update considered alternative development scenarios through 2035 to upgrade and improve airfield and terminal facilities and services for airport users.” It is stated that. The recommended replacement runway would reconstruct Runway 2-20 and extend it from an altitude of 7,000 feet to 8,530 feet. A temporary runway will be constructed parallel to Runway 2-20 to allow for continued airport service while Runway 2-20 is reconstructed. There are no upgrades proposed for Runway 5-23. The replacement terminal will have expanded cargo bays on the south side to increase passenger capacity. ”
Part of the problem may be that many residents opposed the runway extension because it would require the closure of Haleakala Highway from Hana Highway to Keolani Place. At one point, Maui Airport management proposed moving the road underground through a tunnel.
The estimated cost of rebuilding the runway is $104.3 million.
Once the reconstruction occurs, there are plans to use the apron taxiway as an interim runway, which could last at least four months, and possibly longer. The alternative would be to close the runway, but that is not possible.
A new 7,000-foot parallel runway 2R-20L is planned. This would also serve as an alternative should the main runway need to be repaired in the future. The project is estimated to cost at least 3/4 billion dollars and is not expected to be realized for at least another decade.
Recent developments at OGG.
Kahului Airport is struggling to handle increasing passenger numbers, requiring continued efforts by airlines and authorities to meet Maui’s growing travel demand. Upgrades and improvements have been made by his OGG, including a new integrated car rental facility, as well as improvements to hold rooms and gates, but have had limited success in improving the overall travel experience. The new TSA facility will be funded with $62 million and is expected to be in place by 2025.
What do you think about the present and future of Maui Airport?
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