Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Major construction is underway at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport. Runway 5-23, the main runway, is shut down effective Aug. 1 for the next two months.
All air traffic will be utilizing the airport's secondary runway, 14-32.
NFTA Deputy Director of Aviation Russ Stark said it's going to be an adjustment for those living near the airport because flight patterns are changing.
"Everyone is used to aircraft landing on the 5-23 runway. But now we're switching. Most of our traffic is now departing to the northwest and approaching over the golf course. Noise levels are going to change. People are not used to that much traffic. We just ask for their patience," he said.
Rehabilitation to the main runway is needed. It includes reconstruction, new centerline and taxiway lighting, and taxiway realignment. Once it's complete, Stark said the runway will be good to go for the next 20 years.
As a result of the change, JetBlue has had to suspend non stop service
to LAX during the construction. They can't use the shorter runway for departures.
When Runway 5-23 reopens October 1, it will continue to be closed for overnight construction through November 1st.
Noise complaints may be sent to: Noise Complaint - Buffalo Niagara International Airport (buffaloairport.com)