Route Development
YYC Calgary Airport Reopens West Runway After Major $201M Upgrade
Calgary Airport Authority completes $201M rebuild of West Runway with CAT II upgrade and sustainability measures for future growth.
On November 27, 2025, The Calgary Airport Authority marked a significant milestone in Canadian aviation infrastructure with the official reopening of the West Runway (Runway 17R-35L). This event concludes a comprehensive two-year rehabilitation project that required a substantial investment of approximately $201 million. As the longest runway at YYC Calgary International Airport, measuring 12,500 feet, this asset is critical to the region’s connectivity. The project was not simply a resurfacing effort but a complete structural rebuild designed to modernize the airport’s capabilities for decades to come.
The reopening comes at a pivotal moment for the airport, which serves as a major economic engine for Calgary and the province of Alberta. With commercial flights scheduled to resume landing on the runway on Friday, November 28, 2025, and full operational capacity expected by December 2, 2025, the timing aligns with projected surges in passenger traffic. We see this development as a strategic move to bolster the airport’s operational resilience, ensuring it can handle the demands of modern aviation while adhering to strict environmental standards.
Funding for this massive undertaking was a collaborative effort between the federal government and the airport authority. The Government of Canada, through Transport Canada’s Airport Critical Infrastructure Program, contributed $57.5 million, recognizing the runway’s importance to the national supply chain and travel network. The remaining $143.5 million was funded directly by The Calgary Airport Authority. This financial commitment underscores the long-term vision for YYC, positioning it to support both passenger growth and critical cargo movements efficiently.
The scope of the West Runway Rehabilitation Project extended far beyond standard maintenance. Originally constructed in 1939, the runway required a complete lifecycle replacement to meet the demands of heavier, modern aircraft and increased traffic frequency. PCL Construction, serving as the general contractor, led the effort to remove and replace the entire pavement structure. This foundational work ensures that the runway will remain operational and safe for another 40 years, effectively resetting the clock on one of the airport’s most vital assets.
In addition to the pavement overhaul, the project included significant upgrades to the runway’s electrical and lighting systems. The installation of energy-efficient LED lighting replaces the outdated incandescent fixtures, providing superior visibility for pilots while reducing energy consumption. Furthermore, the project addressed subsurface infrastructure, replacing drainage and storm systems to improve climate resilience. These improvements are essential for maintaining operations during severe weather events, which are not uncommon in the region.
We also note the inclusion of critical safety enhancements that bring the runway in line with modern international standards. The rehabilitation included the addition of Runway End Safety Areas (RESA), which provide an extra margin of safety for aircraft. These structural and technological upgrades represent a holistic approach to infrastructure management, prioritizing both current operational needs and future safety requirements.
“This is critical infrastructure… We forecast that our passenger volumes could increase up to 40 per cent within the next five years. Everything we build now is made to meet that moment, to elevate passenger experience, and to make our operations more efficient and sustainable.”, Chris Dinsdale, President & CEO, The Calgary Airport Authority. One of the most significant operational improvements resulting from this project is the upgrade to a Category 2 (CAT II) runway status. This certification allows for aircraft landings in lower visibility conditions, such as dense fog, which has historically been a challenge for flight schedules. By enabling landings in poorer weather, the airport can significantly reduce the number of flight diversions and delays. This upgrade directly translates to a more reliable schedule for passengers and airlines alike, minimizing the ripple effects of weather-related disruptions.
The return of the West Runway also restores the airport’s ability to balance air traffic effectively between its parallel runways. For the past two years, the airport has operated with reduced capacity, often leading to longer taxi times and increased pressure on the East Runway. With the West Runway back online, passengers landing on the west side of the airfield can expect to save approximately five minutes in taxi time per flight. This efficiency gain, while seemingly small on an individual level, aggregates to substantial time and fuel savings across thousands of annual flights. Furthermore, the reopening facilitates necessary maintenance on other parts of the airfield. With the West Runway fully operational, the airport gains the flexibility to conduct routine upkeep on the East Runway without severely impacting overall capacity. This redundancy is vital for a major international hub, ensuring that maintenance schedules do not interfere with the airport’s primary mandate of moving people and goods safely and efficiently.
“Safety and security is always No. 1… The reopening of the runway represents an investment in growth. In 2024, we had 18 million passengers, [and] in 2025, we’re going to have another record.”, Chris Miles, Chief Operating Officer, The Calgary Airport Authority. The West Runway project distinguishes itself through its rigorous commitment to environmental stewardship. It is one of the first airport projects in Canada to pursue and achieve certification under the Envision Framework, with a Gold level certification anticipated from the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure. This framework evaluates the sustainability and resilience of civil infrastructure, and YYC’s adherence to these standards sets a precedent for future aviation projects across the country.
A key component of this sustainability strategy was the aggressive recycling of construction materials. We understand that approximately 90% of the materials from the old runway, including asphalt, concrete, and electrical fixtures, were recycled or reused on-site. This approach significantly reduced the volume of waste sent to landfills and minimized the carbon footprint associated with transporting new materials to the construction site. Additionally, the project utilized CarbonCure technology, which injects captured carbon dioxide into fresh concrete, permanently sequestering it and reducing the overall embodied carbon of the new pavement.
Water conservation also played a major role during the construction phase. The project team implemented a water re-use program that saved nearly 2 million liters of potable water. In a region where water resource management is increasingly important, such measures demonstrate a responsible approach to large-scale construction. These initiatives reflect a broader shift in the aviation industry toward balancing necessary infrastructure growth with environmental responsibility.
The reopening of the West Runway at YYC Calgary International Airport marks the successful conclusion of a complex, high-stakes infrastructure project. By investing $201 million into a complete rebuild, the airport has secured its operational capacity for the next four decades. The integration of advanced safety features, such as the CAT II upgrade, alongside industry-leading sustainability practices, positions YYC as a forward-thinking leader in the aviation sector. As passenger volumes are projected to rise by 40% over the next five years, this infrastructure is not merely a replacement of the old but a foundation for future growth.
Looking ahead, the benefits of this project will be felt immediately by travelers through reduced delays and shorter taxi times. However, the long-term value lies in the airport’s enhanced resilience against climate challenges and economic shifts. As Calgary continues to expand as a global hub, the modernized West Runway stands as a testament to the importance of proactive investment in critical infrastructure.
When will the West Runway be fully operational? What was the total cost of the rehabilitation project? How does this project improve the passenger experience? What makes this project sustainable?
A New Era for YYC: The West Runway Returns
Engineering a Complete Lifecycle Replacement
Operational Efficiency and Safety Upgrades
Setting a New Standard for Sustainability
Conclusion
FAQ
Commercial flights are scheduled to resume landing on the runway on Friday, November 28, 2025. The runway is expected to reach full operational capacity by December 2, 2025.
The total cost of the project was approximately $201 million CAD. This was funded by a combination of $57.5 million from the Government of Canada and $143.5 million from The Calgary Airport Authority.
The project improves experience by upgrading the runway to Category 2 status, which allows for landings in lower visibility, reducing diversions and delays. Additionally, utilizing the West Runway can reduce taxi times by approximately five minutes for flights landing on that side of the airport.
The project is Envision Framework certified. It achieved this by recycling approximately 90% of materials from the old runway, using CarbonCure technology to sequester CO2 in the concrete, and implementing a water re-use program that saved nearly 2 million liters of water.
Sources
Photo Credit: YYC
Route Development
Chicago O’Hare Launches Orchard-Inspired Concourse D Expansion
O’Hare International Airport’s $1.3B Concourse D with orchard-inspired design and 19 flexible gates is set to open in late 2028.
This article is based on an official press release from the City of Chicago.
On Thursday, February 5, 2026, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) released a detailed animated preview of “The New Concourse D” at O’Hare International Airports. Formerly known as Satellite Concourse 1, this $1.3 billion infrastructure project represents a pivotal phase in the airport’s massive ORDNext expansion program.
According to the official announcement, the new facility is currently under construction following a groundbreaking ceremony in August 2025. Scheduled to open to the public in late 2028, Concourse D is designed to modernize the passenger experience with a focus on wellness, natural light, and operational flexibility. The project is being led by the architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), alongside partners Ross Barney Architects and Juan Gabriel Moreno Architects (JGMA).
The newly released video highlights a dramatic shift in design philosophy for the airport, moving away from industrial aesthetics toward a “nature-infused” environment that pays homage to the site’s history.
The central theme of the new concourse is a direct nod to O’Hare’s pre-aviation history as an apple orchard, originally known as Orchard Field, which gave the airport its “ORD” IATA code. The City of Chicago press release details how the interior architecture features tree-like structural columns that branch out to support the roof, creating a canopy effect intended to reduce travel stress.
A key feature of the design is the “Oculus,” a central skylight that serves as the building’s architectural focal point. The design team emphasizes that this feature is not merely aesthetic but functional, directing natural daylight deep into the building to aid in intuitive wayfinding.
“We designed the new satellite concourse to create a frictionless experience for travelers… The gate lounges feature column-free expanses for easy wayfinding, high ceilings to optimize views, and a daylighting strategy to help align the body’s natural rhythms.”
, Scott Duncan, Design Partner at SOM
The facility will include over 20,000 square feet of airline lounge space and 30,000 square feet dedicated to retail and concessions. In a move to accommodate modern traveler needs, the design also incorporates a dedicated children’s play area and multi-level communal seating equipped with integrated charging stations. Beyond the aesthetics, Concourse D is a critical component of the broader ORDNext (formerly O’Hare 21) capital program. The expansion is necessary to maintain O’Hare’s status as a global hub by increasing gate capacity and flexibility.
According to the CDA, the concourse will add 19 new flexible gates to the airport’s portfolio. These gates are designed with versatility in mind, capable of accommodating:
This flexibility allows the airport to adjust to shifting market demands between domestic and international travel without requiring physical construction changes.
“By breaking ground on Concourse D, we are taking a critical first step toward enhancing how the airport welcomes and serves more than 80 million passengers each year.”
, Michael McMurray, CDA Commissioner
Mayor Brandon Johnson emphasized the economic impact of the project, noting that it serves as an economic engine for the region. The city estimates the project will create approximately 3,800 construction jobs.
The rebranding of “Satellite 1” to “Concourse D” and the release of this high-fidelity animation signal a clear intent by Chicago officials to solidify the project’s identity before the steel rises significantly. By leaning heavily into the “Orchard” narrative, the CDA is attempting to differentiate O’Hare from other sterile, glass-and-steel global hubs.
From an operational standpoint, the “flexible gate” configuration is the most significant detail. As airline fleets evolve and the mix between wide-body international haulers and narrow-body domestic hoppers fluctuates, static gates can become liabilities. The ability to park two narrow-bodies in the footprint of one wide-body maximizes the return on Investments for this $1.3 billion asset, ensuring it remains relevant regardless of how airline strategies shift in the 2030s.
The project is currently active, with construction managed by the joint venture AECOM Hunt Clayco Bowa. The timeline provided by the city outlines the following key milestones:
Concourse D is located just south of the existing Concourse C (Terminal 1) and will be connected via a new walkway extension. It serves as the precursor to the eventual demolition of Terminal 2, which will make way for the future O’Hare Global Terminal.
Where is the new Concourse D located? When will Concourse D open? Why is it called the “Orchard” design? How much will the project cost?
O’Hare Unveils “Orchard-Inspired” Vision for New Concourse D
Design Philosophy: Returning to the Orchard
Operational Capacity and ORDNext Strategy
AirPro News Analysis
Timeline and Next Steps
Frequently Asked Questions
It is located directly south of the existing Concourse C at Terminal 1. It will be connected to the main terminal complex via a new walkway extension.
The City of Chicago and the Chicago Department of Aviation have scheduled the opening for late 2028.
The design pays tribute to “Orchard Field,” the original name of the airfield that became O’Hare. The interior columns resemble trees, and the layout emphasizes nature and light.
The budget for Concourse D is set at $1.3 billion.
Sources
Photo Credit: City of Chicago
Route Development
SAS and TAROM Codeshare Connects Scandinavia and Romania in 2026
SAS and TAROM announce a codeshare agreement effective February 2026, enhancing connectivity between Scandinavia and Romania with SkyTeam benefits.
This article is based on an official press release from SAS Group.
Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and TAROM, the flag carrier of Romania, have announced a comprehensive codeshare agreement set to commence on February 9, 2026. The partnership aims to restore and enhance connectivity between Northern Europe and Romania following SAS’s strategic shift to the SkyTeam alliance.
According to the official announcement from SAS Group, the agreement will allow passengers to book single-ticket journeys between the two regions by utilizing major European transit hubs. This move integrates TAROM, a long-standing SkyTeam member, more deeply with SAS, which officially joined the alliance on September 1, 2024.
The collaboration addresses a significant gap in network connectivity, offering business and leisure travelers seamless baggage check-through and reciprocal loyalty benefits. Paul Verhagen, EVP & Chief Commercial Officer at SAS, emphasized the strategic value of the deal in a statement:
“This new partnership with TAROM marks an important step in enhancing connectivity between Scandinavia and Romania. By combining our networks and offering smooth transfers via key European hubs, we are giving our customers more choice, flexibility, and convenience.”
Rather than launching direct flights immediately, the airlines are leveraging a “virtual hub” strategy. According to the press release, the codeshare will route traffic through four key intermediate airports: Amsterdam (AMS), Brussels (BRU), Frankfurt (FRA), and Prague (PRG).
Under the terms of the agreement:
This structure allows the airlines to offer competitive travel times and frequency without dedicating aircraft to direct point-to-point routes, which are currently dominated by low-cost carriers.
This agreement is a direct consequence of the major airline alliance realignment that occurred in late 2024. When SAS departed Star Alliance to join SkyTeam, it lost its traditional connectivity to Eastern Europe provided by partners like Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines. Partnering with TAROM allows SAS to rebuild its footprint in the region using SkyTeam infrastructure.
For TAROM, the deal unlocks access to the high-yield Scandinavian market. The Romanian carrier is currently in the midst of a fleet modernization program, transitioning from aging aircraft to new Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets expected to arrive in late 2025 and 2026. By utilizing SAS for the northern leg of the journey, TAROM can expand its network reach while conserving its own metal for other high-demand routes. Narcis Obeadă, Commercial Director at TAROM, hinted at further expansion in the company’s statement:
“In the coming period, TAROM will announce new commercial agreements, in line with the company’s mission to safely and efficiently connect Romania and Romanian culture to the international air transport network.”
Travelers utilizing the codeshare will benefit from the full suite of SkyTeam alliance perks. Members of SAS EuroBonus and TAROM’s loyalty program will be able to earn and redeem points on these codeshare flights. Additionally, premium passengers will gain access to SkyTeam lounges at transit hubs.
The passenger experience on the SAS leg of these journeys is also set for an upgrade. SAS is currently rolling out free high-speed Starlink WiFi across its fleet, a project the airline states will be widely available by late 2025.
The “Prague” Anomaly and Market Positioning
The inclusion of Prague (PRG) as a connection hub is a notable operational detail. Following the cessation of operations by Czech Airlines (CSA) as a standalone SkyTeam member in October 2024, Prague is no longer a primary alliance hub. The decision to route traffic through PRG suggests a strong bilateral interline capability between SAS and TAROM that functions independently of major alliance hub infrastructure.
Furthermore, this deal clearly targets the premium business segment. While low-cost carrier Wizz Air operates direct flights between Bucharest and Copenhagen, legacy carriers cannot compete purely on price. Instead, SAS and TAROM are competing on schedule flexibility (multiple daily frequencies via hubs) and corporate perks (lounge access, baggage interlining). With tourism to Romania rising, foreign arrivals were up 13.4% year-on-year as of August 2024, the demand for reliable, full-service connectivity is likely to grow.
When can I book these codeshare flights? Will my bags be checked through to the final destination? Do these flights count toward SkyTeam Elite status?
SAS and TAROM Launch Strategic Codeshare to Connect Scandinavia and Romania
Operational Details: The Virtual Hub Strategy
RO marketing code on SAS flights connecting Copenhagen, Oslo, and Stockholm to these intermediate hubs.SK marketing code on TAROM flights connecting Bucharest to the same hubs.Strategic Context: The SkyTeam Realignment
Passenger Experience and Loyalty
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
The codeshare agreement is effective starting February 9, 2026. Tickets should be available through both airlines’ booking channels prior to this date.
Yes. Because this is a full codeshare agreement, passengers traveling on a single ticket (e.g., Bucharest to Stockholm via Amsterdam) will have their baggage checked through to the final destination.
Yes. Flights marketed and operated by SkyTeam members (SAS and TAROM) count toward tier status and accrue redeemable miles/points according to the rules of your specific loyalty program.
Sources
Photo Credit: SAS Group
Route Development
Starlux Airlines Launches Taipei to Prague Flights in 2026
Starlux Airlines will begin nonstop service between Taipei and Prague in August 2026, featuring its exclusive First Class on the Airbus A350-900.
This article summarizes reporting by One Mile at a Time and Ben Schlappig.
Starlux Airlines, the Taiwan-based luxury carrier, has officially announced its expansion into the European market. According to reporting by One Mile at a Time, the airline will launch nonstop service between Taipei (TPE) and Prague (PRG) beginning August 1, 2026. This development marks a major milestone for the “boutique” airline, representing its first long-haul destination outside of North America.
The new route signals a strategic shift for Starlux, which has previously focused its long-haul efforts exclusively on transpacific flights to the United States. By deploying its flagship Airbus A350-900 aircraft on this sector, the airline intends to compete directly with legacy carriers by offering a premium-heavy configuration, including its exclusive First Class cabin.
Based on schedule data cited by One Mile at a Time and confirmed by Prague Airport, the service will initially operate three times weekly. The flights are scheduled for Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, with plans to increase frequency to four times weekly by adding Mondays starting in October 2026.
The operational schedule is as follows:
Jiří Pos, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Prague Airport, welcomed the new connection in a statement regarding the launch.
“We estimate that the route will be used by approximately 95,000 passengers in the first year of operation.”
, Jiří Pos, Chairman of Prague Airport
Travelers on this route will experience Starlux’s most premium hardware. One Mile at a Time notes that the Airbus A350-900 is the only aircraft type in the Starlux fleet equipped with a First Class cabin. The aircraft features a total of 306 seats across four distinct classes:
This deployment is significant because it brings a true First Class product to the Taipei-Prague market, distinguishing Starlux from competitors that may only offer Business Class on similar routes.
While major European hubs like London Heathrow or Paris Charles de Gaulle are often the first ports of call for Asian carriers expanding westward, Starlux’s choice of Prague is driven by specific economic factors rather than traditional tourism volume alone. The Semiconductor Connection “Prague is a long-favored destination for Taiwanese travelers, and growing semiconductor industry ties are expected to further drive demand…”
, Glenn Chai, CEO of Starlux Airlines
Competitive Landscape According to the reporting by Ben Schlappig, this route is likely just the beginning of Starlux’s European ambitions. The airline has indicated plans to launch a second European destination later in 2026. While not officially confirmed, industry reports suggest Milan (MXP) is a strong contender, which would align with the carrier’s Strategy of connecting high-value fashion and business hubs.
Starlux Airlines Selects Prague for First European Route
Flight Schedule and Operational Details
Onboard Experience: The Airbus A350-900
AirPro News Analysis: Strategic Market Positioning
We observe that the economic ties between Taiwan and the Czech Republic have deepened significantly due to the semiconductor industry. With major investments from Taiwanese tech giants in Central Europe, business travel demand is high. Starlux CEO Glenn Chai highlighted this synergy in his remarks regarding the Launch.
Starlux will face direct competition from China Airlines, which launched the same route in July 2023. However, Starlux appears to be betting on its “luxury boutique” brand identity to capture high-yield business travelers and premium leisure tourists who prioritize cabin comfort and newer aircraft hardware.
Future European Expansion
Frequently Asked Questions
Photo Credit: Starlux Airlines
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