Boston Logan Airport Reopens Runway 9-27 After Safety Upgrade

Logan Airport’s Busiest Runway Reopens After Major Safety Overhaul

Boston Logan International Airport, a critical hub for domestic and international travel, has reached a significant milestone in a multi-phase safety enhancement project. The airport’s busiest runway, Runway 9-27, is set to reopen following a 75-day closure that began on September 2, 2025. This undertaking is part of a larger, $110 million initiative aimed at bolstering airfield safety, specifically by installing an advanced Engineered Material Arresting System (EMAS) at the end of Runway 27. The project underscores a proactive approach to aviation safety, ensuring the infrastructure can mitigate potential runway overrun incidents, a critical consideration for an airport bordered by the Boston Harbor.

The closure, while temporary, had a noticeable impact on the airport’s operational capacity. With Runway 9-27 out of commission, the hourly flight capacity was reduced from a typical 50-55 flights to approximately 40. This reduction led to anticipated delays, averaging between 45 to 60 minutes, particularly during the peak hours of 1:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport), which operates the airport, worked closely with airlines to manage these disruptions. The scheduled completion of this first phase before the busy Thanksgiving holiday rush was a key logistical goal, aiming to restore full capacity during one of the year’s most demanding travel periods.

This project is not merely a routine upgrade but a complex engineering feat. A significant portion of the new safety infrastructure is being constructed on a pile-supported deck over the water, a testament to the unique geographical challenges of Logan Airport. The installation of the EMAS brings Logan in line with the highest Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) safety standards, enhancing protection for aircraft, passengers, and crew. This will be the third such system at the airport, with similar installations already in place at the ends of Runways 22R and 33L.

The Science of Safety: How EMAS Works

The core of the Runway 27 upgrade is the Engineered Material Arresting System. An EMAS is a sophisticated yet passive safety system designed to prevent catastrophic accidents in the event of a runway overrun. It consists of a bed of lightweight, crushable concrete blocks. If an aircraft overshoots the runway, its tires sink into these blocks, and the material’s controlled collapse creates a strong decelerating force, bringing the plane to a safe stop. The technology is often compared to a runaway truck ramp on a highway, providing a crucial safety net where runway safety areas are geographically constrained.

The material itself is a type of cellular cement that is designed to crush under the weight of an aircraft. This process absorbs the kinetic energy of the plane in a predictable and controlled manner, minimizing damage to the aircraft and preventing injuries to those on board. The effectiveness of EMAS has been proven in real-world scenarios. A recent incident in Roanoke, Virginia, saw a jet safely stopped by an EMAS after overshooting the runway, with no serious injuries reported. This and other successful deployments underscore the system’s value as a critical safety feature in modern aviation.

For an airport like Logan, situated in close proximity to water, the implementation of EMAS is particularly vital. The FAA mandates stringent Runway Safety Area (RSA) standards, and where physical space is limited, EMAS provides an approved and effective solution. The project at Logan will extend the runway safety area to a length of 650 feet from the end of the runway, all without altering the runway’s operational length or capacity. It is a targeted safety enhancement that addresses a specific risk profile associated with the airport’s unique location.

“EMAS is a vital safety system at Boston Logan and other airports located near water or ground elevation changes.” – Massport Representative

A Logistical Tap Dance: Construction Over Water

The execution of the Runway 27 EMAS installation is a complex logistical operation, made more challenging by the need to build over Boston Harbor. Construction crews have been working 24 hours a day, seven days a week to meet the tight 75-day deadline for the first phase. This round-the-clock effort involves a delicate coordination of land-based and water-based activities. Barges are used to transport pre-cast materials, while cranes operate from both the shore and the water, all scheduled around the natural rhythm of the tides.

This intricate process was described by one official as a “logistical tap dance,” highlighting the precision required to manage the numerous moving parts. The project is divided into two distinct 75-day closure periods to minimize long-term disruption. The first phase, now concluding, sets the stage for the second and final phase, which is scheduled to commence after July 1, 2026. This phased approach allows the airport to return to normal operations during peak seasons while still advancing this critical safety project.

While the construction is intensive, Massport has implemented measures to mitigate its impact on surrounding communities. Noisy work is restricted to specific hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturdays, and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays. This consideration for local residents is a key part of managing a large-scale infrastructure project in a densely populated urban environment. The entire $110 million project is a significant investment in the airport’s future, with a large portion of the funding provided by the FAA, reflecting its national importance.

Conclusion: A Safer Future for Logan Airport

The reopening of Runway 9-27 marks a successful first step in a crucial safety upgrade for Boston Logan International Airport. The installation of the EMAS technology is a forward-thinking measure that directly addresses the risks associated with the airport’s coastal location. By investing in this proven safety system, Massport and the FAA are enhancing the protection afforded to millions of passengers and crew members who travel through Boston each year. The project demonstrates a commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards in an ever-evolving aviation landscape.

Looking ahead, the completion of the second phase in 2026 will solidify Logan’s position as a leader in airport safety. The temporary disruptions and delays, while inconvenient, are a necessary trade-off for a long-term gain in operational security. As air travel continues to grow, investments in critical infrastructure like the Runway 27 EMAS will be essential to ensuring that safety remains the top priority. This project serves as a model for other airports facing similar geographical constraints, proving that with careful planning and complex engineering, safety can be enhanced even in the most challenging environments.

FAQ

Question: What is an EMAS?
Answer: An Engineered Material Arresting System (EMAS) is a bed of lightweight, crushable concrete installed at the end of a runway. It is designed to safely stop an aircraft that overshoots the runway by absorbing its energy.

Question: Why was the runway closed?
Answer: Runway 9-27 was closed to allow for the installation of the EMAS at the end of Runway 27. This is a major safety upgrade required to meet FAA standards.

Question: How long was the runway closed?
Answer: The project is divided into two 75-day closure periods. The first phase began on September 2, 2025, and concluded on November 15, 2025. A second 75-day closure is planned for after July 1, 2026.

Question: Did the project extend the runway?
Answer: No, the project does not extend the runway or change its operational capacity. It extends the runway’s safety area to a length of 650 feet.

Sources

WCVB