One of four runways at Midway Airport is expected to be closed for about a month for repairs to a runway safety system and its expected to impact flights.
The city Department of Aviation says the Engineered Materials Arresting System (EMAS) at the end of runway 22L was damaged by aircraft activity, including jet blast.
This is a crushable surface installed at the end of some shorter runways that prevents a plane from overshooting a runway.
The plane’s tires sink in, stopping forward progress.
The department says the closure could cause flight delays and cancellations, depending on factors that include schedules and wind direction.
Southwest operates the most flights at Midway.
Repairs are expected to be complete by mid-November.
Flight Aware
PRESS RELEASE
CHICAGO -- In consultation with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) announced today the temporary closure of Runway 22L at Midway International Airport to arrivals and departures for repairs to a runway safety system. The closure is effective immediately, and repairs are currently targeted for completion in mid-November.
The Engineered Materials Arresting System (EMAS) at the departure end of Runway 22L sustained damage from recent aircraft activity, including jet blast, necessitating the repairs.
“Safety is the top priority at Chicago’s airports, and we are working to complete these repairs safely and promptly,” said CDA Commissioner Michael McMurray. “We’re coordinating closely with our partners at the FAA and the airlines to reduce disruptions for travelers and return the airfield to normal operating conditions as quickly and safely as possible.”
The closure has the potential to cause flight delays and cancellations. The extent of these disruptions will vary based on airline schedules and weather conditions, particularly wind direction, which affects how the airport’s four-runway network can be used for arrivals and departures.
Travelers should monitor their flight status and check with their airline before heading to the airport. Passengers whose flights are affected should work directly with their air carrier on rebooking or other itinerary changes.
CDA will coordinate closely with the FAA and airlines operating at Midway to minimize operational impacts whenever possible. The department will keep travelers and airport partners informed throughout the repair process.
