Winnipeg Airports Authority Investing in Extensive Runway Rehabilitation

April 19, 2024

As part of Winnipeg Airports Authority’s commitment to providing critical infrastructure to help meet the needs of our community, a significant construction project will be undertaken to upgrade one of the runways at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport.

Runway 18/36, the largest at YWG at nearly 3.4 kilometres in length, will undergo extensive pavement repairs, electrical enhancements and drainage restoration. This type of regular preventative maintenance is required every 10-15 years to maintain the integrity of runways so the airport can continue to enable the safe and seamless movement of people and goods.

Work began in April and is expected to be completed by the fall. To help minimize its impact, the project is being staggered over multiple phases, with some lead-up work completed in 2023. Sections of both runways at YWG will be available for aircraft use throughout the project, however, at times, Runway 18/36 will need to be closed entirely to accommodate construction. The following neighbourhoods may experience an increase or decrease in air traffic during the project:

St. James
Brooklands
Charleswood
Tuxedo
River Heights

Fort Garry
Fort Rouge
St. Vital
Wolseley
South End

WAA will continue implementing noise abatement procedures for departure and arrival altitudes, nighttime operating restrictions, and more to reduce impacts. The organization is also working with its airline and airport partners to ensure normal operations continue during the project.