Calgary International Airport

To make certain the potential environmental effects of airport development are fully considered, The Calgary Airport Authority (the Authority) undertakes an environmental assessment of all projects. The Authority is the decision-making authority, and is charged with ensuring that the environmental effects of its projects are mitigated

A Comprehensive Study (CS) is a detailed and comprehensive type of environmental assessment.

Currently, we are in the first Phase of the Comprehensive Study (CS). A draft Project Description and Scoping Document has been prepared which describes the main components/activities of the project and identifies key issues and studies required in the assessment to be conducted by the Authority. Currently, the public, stakeholders and all three levels of government have been asked to provide comment on this document.

The new parallel runway is expected to be operational in 2014.

The project web site will provide information and various reports over the course of the Comprehensive Study. Reports and presentations will be available for download as they become available. Documents can also be reviewed at the airport located at 2000 Airport Road NE, Calgary, AB, T2E 6W5, in the Planning and Engineering reception area. Copies of the document will also be available on CD at the above mentioned office. Hard copies and CDs of the Draft Scoping Document can be obtained here, or requested from AECOM by calling 403-717-2220. Documents will also be provided to local libraries for public review.

To be added to the mailing list email (info@rwy-yyc.com), phone (403 717 2220) or write to the attention of: 

Runway Development Program
c/o Calgary Airport Authority
2000 Airport Road NE
Calgary, AB T2E 6W5
You can also provide your contact information at any Public Consultation Meeting.

The next round of Public Consultation Meetings is scheduled for June/July 2010.

The Calgary Airport Authority is responsible for the operation, management and development of Calgary International Airport under long term lease from the Government of Canada.

Congestion resulting from aircraft waiting to take off and land is the primary motive for the new parallel runway. During peak hours, the demand has exceeded the current runway system. A new parallel runway will result in a more efficient airfield system for the airport.

The Project Description and Scoping Document includes a description of the main components of the Project which are identified below. 

The Parallel Runway Project consists of the following:

• A 14,000 foot x 200 foot runway (4,270 m x 60 m) and associated taxiways.
• Visual and electronic navigation aids required for its operation.
• A maintenance facility, a field electrical centre, and changes to airfield roads necessitated by construction of the runway.
• Taxiway underpass for YYC airfield activities.
• Closure of Barlow Trail between Airport Road and 48 Avenue.

Traffic levels are slightly lower due to the current economic downturn. However, as history has shown, downturns are temporary and The Calgary Airport Authority (the Authority) anticipates continued growth in the future. Initiating the Environmental Assessment process now will allow the Authority deliver the project in 2014.

All airports are unique, and the characteristics of their traffic mix can vary. For example, in England, Gatwick has only one runway, but it handles predominately larger long-haul aircraft which typically carry more passengers per aircraft than the majority of aircraft operating out of Calgary International Airport (YYC). Calgary’s three existing runways are in what is known as an intersecting configuration – which is not as efficient as a parallel runway system. Out of the four busiest airports in Canada (Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary), Calgary is the only airport to manage its traffic without the benefit of an efficient parallel runway system.

Calgary and the surrounding areas will benefit in many ways from the new parallel runway. The new parallel runway will create a more efficient airfield. This will result in reduced delays and idling aircraft, benefiting both the travelling public and the environment. With this new longer runway, Calgary will also be able to provide non-stop service to more international destinations. 

Like other major infrastructure projects, the construction of the new parallel runway will help stimulate the local economy through job creation. 

With improved air service and new destinations, Calgary International Airport (YYC) will be able to enhance air transport service to the travelling public.

The portion of Barlow Trail between Airport Road and 48 Avenue will be closed in 2011. The Calgary Airport Authority is working closely with the City of Calgary as we progress with the planning and design of our new runway. As part of our discussions, we are strongly encouraging the City to have adequate infrastructure in place to meet the NE transportation network surrounding the airport prior to the start of construction on the new runway at YYC.

Read The Calgary Airport Authority's letter to the City of Calgary