Helsinki Airport's Runway 3 Undergoing Renovation: Impact and Adjustments

Helsinki Airport announces the closure of Runway 3 for renovations from 15 April to 12 June 2024, ensuring safe and punctual air traffic with alternative landing and takeoff directions.

Starting 15 April 2024, Helsinki Airport will embark on a significant renovation project involving Runway 3 and its adjacent taxiways, scheduled to conclude on 12 June. This maintenance is crucial for sustaining the structural integrity of the runway, given the substantial stress it endures from ongoing aircraft activity. Finavia's Vice President, Jani Elasmaa, overseeing apron and runway operations at Helsinki Airport, emphasized the importance of regular renovations and inspections for maintaining safe and timely air traffic.

The renovation encompasses surface repairs of the taxiways leading to Runway 3 and upgrades to the lighting systems, essential for night-time operations and visibility. The process will begin with the closure of Runway 3, followed by dismantling existing lights, conducting earthworks and asphalting, and culminating in the installation of new lighting and general runway maintenance.

Due to the temporary unavailability of Runway 3, aircraft landing and takeoff directions will be adjusted. Landings will primarily occur on Runway 2 (15/33) from the northwest and Runway 1 (22L) from the northeast. Departures will mainly use Runway 1 towards the southwest, adhering to low-noise flight paths or directions from air traffic control, mirroring the usual departure directions from Runway 3. Additionally, low-noise jet aircraft may utilize Runway 2 for southerly take-offs if needed.

Despite these changes, the renovation is not expected to disrupt the overall travel experience at Helsinki Airport. The airport's two other runways will remain operational, ensuring adequate flight capacity and minimal impact on passengers and flight schedules. This renovation is a critical component of Helsinki Airport’s infrastructure lifecycle management, aiming for completion before the busy mid-June travel period.

Helsinki Airport boasts three runways, with Runway 3 being the newest, introduced in 2002 to accommodate the increasing demands of modern air travel. The naming convention for runways, based on compass bearings, reflects global aviation standards, with Runway 2 also known as 15/33, denoting its directional bearings.

This renovation project reaffirms Finavia's commitment to providing a safe, efficient, and high-quality infrastructure for travelers passing through Helsinki Airport, reinforcing its status as a key hub in the aviation network.