This article is based on an official press release from San Antonio International Airport.

San Antonio International Airport Launches Critical Runway Rehabilitation Project

San Antonio International Airport (SAT) has officially commenced a significant pavement rehabilitation project on Runway 13R-31L, the airfield’s primary commercial runway. According to an announcement from airport officials, the construction effort is scheduled to begin on Monday, January 12, 2026, and will continue for approximately eight weeks, with a targeted completion date of March 6, 2026.

The project is described as an interim maintenance measure designed to address pavement deterioration in critical areas. By executing these repairs now, the airport aims to extend the functional life of the runway until a full-depth reconstruction can be performed in the future. During this period, Runway 13R-31L will remain fully closed, with all air traffic diverted to the airport’s crosswind runway, Runway 4-22.

Scope of Work and Investment

The rehabilitation is part of a broader airfield improvement contract awarded to Austin Bridge and Road, valued at approximately $90 million. This larger contract encompasses drainage improvements, pavement rehabilitation, and other essential upgrades. Funding for the project is provided in part by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airport Improvement Program (AIP).

According to project details released by the airport, the scope of work includes:

• Concrete Replacement: Removal and replacement of concrete pavement in specific areas showing signs of deterioration.
• Lighting Upgrades: Installation of modern, energy-efficient LED technology to replace the existing electrical lighting system.
• Pavement Markings: Re-establishment of markings across rehabilitated sections to ensure high visibility and safety.

Tim O’Krongley, Deputy Aviation Director, emphasized the necessity of the project in a statement:

“These improvements are essential to maintaining a safe and reliable airfield for our airlines, our partners and our region. We appreciate the community’s patience as the airport completes these essential updates, supporting safer and more efficient airfield operations for years to come.”

Operational and Community Impact

Despite the closure of the primary runway, airport officials have stated that no flight delays are expected. The project timeline was coordinated in advance with the FAA, air traffic control, and airlines to minimize disruption to passenger travel. All commercial traffic will utilize Runway 4-22, which is approximately 8,500 feet long, sufficient to handle the airport’s current operational needs.

Neighborhood Noise Changes

While passengers may not experience changes, local residents likely will. The shift in flight operations means that neighborhoods located northeast and southwest of the airport will experience increased air traffic overhead. Officials noted that these residents will observe “winter air traffic patterns” more frequently due to the exclusive use of Runway 4-22 for the duration of the eight-week project.

Strategic Context: Elevate/SAT

This rehabilitation project is a component of the airport’s larger “Elevate/SAT” Strategic Development Plan. It serves as a bridge to a more permanent solution outlined in the airport’s Master Plan.

Current planning documents suggest that a full-depth reconstruction of Runway 13R-31L is tentatively targeted for a future phase, potentially beginning around 2033, pending funding and environmental clearance. The current repairs ensure the runway remains safe and operational until that major overhaul can be executed.

AirPro News Analysis

The decision to pursue interim rehabilitation rather than immediate full reconstruction reflects a pragmatic approach to infrastructure management at SAT. With the airport projecting passenger growth to exceed 10 million annually and a new Terminal C expected to open around 2028, maintaining maximum airfield availability is crucial. By scheduling these repairs now, before the terminal expansion reaches its peak operational demand, SAT is effectively “clearing the decks” to ensure the airfield can support increased capacity in the coming decade. The use of LED upgrades also aligns with broader industry trends toward sustainability and reduced long-term maintenance costs.

Sources

• San Antonio International Airport (sa.gov)