The primary runway at Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport is expected to reopen within weeks. This follows an incident on Wednesday where a commercial jet carrying 53 passengers overran the runway. The airport's Engineered Material Arresting System (EMAS) successfully stopped the aircraft, preventing injuries and major damage.
Authorities are still investigating the cause of the overrun. The EMAS, a safety buffer designed to stop aircraft, performed as intended. While it caused a significant mess, its function ensured the safety of everyone on board.
Key Takeaways
- Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport's main runway will reopen in weeks.
- A commercial jet with 53 passengers overran the runway on Wednesday.
- The EMAS safety system successfully stopped the aircraft.
- This was the first time EMAS was used at the airport since its 2004 installation.
- EMAS was upgraded last year at a cost exceeding $12 million.
- Full EMAS reinstallation is expected next spring or summer.
EMAS System Prevents Major Incident
The Engineered Material Arresting System (EMAS) played a crucial role in the incident. This system is a specially designed buffer at the end of runways. Its purpose is to slow down and stop aircraft that are in danger of overrunning the runway.
On Wednesday, a commercial jet departed from the paved surface. The EMAS engaged and brought the aircraft to a safe halt. This marked the first time the system had been activated at Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport since its initial installation in 2004.
EMAS Facts
- Purpose: To stop aircraft that overrun runways.
- Composition: Blocks of lightweight, crushable concrete.
- Function: Aircraft wheels sink into the blocks, slowing the plane down.
- Speed Capacity: Designed to stop aircraft traveling up to 80 miles per hour.
Airport Director Praises System's Effectiveness
Mike Stewart, the Director of Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport, provided details about the EMAS. He explained that from the surface, it appears to be simple concrete. However, its construction is complex and highly engineered.
"It is basically a system of blocks that are built. All of them are specified by size, depth, the material in them," Stewart said. "Each one, it all fits together. It's designed and engineered to be able to stop aircraft up to 80 miles per hour."
The system's successful deployment prevented any significant damage to the aircraft. More importantly, it ensured the safety of all 53 passengers and crew members on board. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently investigating the incident to determine its cause.
Recent EMAS Upgrade and Future Plans
The EMAS system at Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport underwent a significant upgrade just last year. This project represented a substantial investment, costing over $12 million. The recent incident has demonstrated the value of this investment.
Background on EMAS
EMAS technology has been used at airports worldwide for decades. It is a critical safety measure, especially at airports with limited runway end safety areas. The system works by crushing lightweight concrete blocks under the aircraft's weight, absorbing its energy and bringing it to a controlled stop.
The design ensures that while the system is effective, it minimizes potential damage to the aircraft during an overrun event. This makes it an important component of modern airport safety infrastructure.
Temporary Runway Capacity and Reinstallation Timeline
Stewart confirmed that the damaged EMAS section should be cleared in the coming weeks. This will allow the main runway to reopen, though it will operate at a diminished capacity initially. The airport also has another operational runway, ensuring continued service for travelers.
The full reinstallation of the EMAS system will take more time. There is only one manufacturer globally that installs new EMAS. This company is currently engaged with other projects. As a result, the airport expects the new EMAS to be fully reinstalled sometime next spring or summer.
Minimal Impact on Travelers Expected
Despite the temporary reduction in main runway capacity and the delayed EMAS reinstallation, airport officials do not anticipate significant disruptions for passengers.
"After the fact, I'll say yes, I felt relief. You never want to use these things. They are an expensive insurance policy, but as this has shown, a very worthwhile investment. If it prevents one ounce of damage on that aircraft or prevents one person getting hurt, it's done its job," Stewart stated.
The quick clearance of the damaged area and the availability of a secondary runway are key factors in maintaining normal flight operations. Travelers should continue to monitor airport updates, but no widespread flight impacts are foreseen.
The incident highlights the importance of robust safety infrastructure at airports. The EMAS system performed its critical function, preventing a potentially serious accident and protecting lives. This event reinforces the value of continuous investment in airport safety measures.
