Indianapolis Executive Airport’s Runway Extension Accommodates Larger Aircraft, Improves Safety
The Indianapolis Executive Airport recently celebrated the completion of a $15 million runway extension project led by Woolpert. The new 7,000-foot runway replaces the original 5,500-foot runway and aims to meet the growing demand for aviation services in the northern Indianapolis metropolitan area.
Enhanced Safety and Capacity
The extended runway is designed to provide increased safety for aircraft operations and can now accommodate larger aircraft. This improvement is expected to support the airport's role as a regional hub for corporate air traffic.
Indianapolis Airport Director Sam Sachs highlighted the importance of the new runway in supporting the airport's growth and meeting the needs of the aviation community in the region. The extended runway provides access to one of the longest general aviation runways in Indiana, opening up new possibilities for destinations worldwide.
Phased Construction
The five-year project was executed in multiple phases to ensure that the airport remained operational for the majority of the construction period. This phased approach allowed for a smooth transition and minimized disruptions to airport activities.
Woolpert played a key role in the project, providing design, construction management, planning, and material testing services.
Woolpert Program Director Chris Snyder expressed pride in completing the project, emphasizing the firm's long-standing relationship with the Indianapolis Executive Airport, spanning nearly two decades. Woolpert had previously contributed to various projects at the airport, including the design of a corporate hangar for Beck's Hybrids in 2018.
Funding and Collaboration
The project's funding primarily came from federal grants. Acknowledgments were extended to entities such as the Hamilton County Commissioners and Council, the Hamilton County Airport Authority, the Indiana Department of Transportation, and the Federal Aviation Administration for their support and collaboration throughout the project.
