RUNWAY DIAGNOSTICS

Following data collection and pavement surveys, diagnostics are the critical step in understanding the true condition of runway and determining the most appropriate maintenance and rehabilitation strategies.

NextRoad supports airport operators, airfield managers, and project owners in the assessment of runways, taxiways, and aircraft parking aprons to evaluate pavement performance, anticipate future deterioration, and optimize maintenance programs.

Using pavement survey data, geotechnical investigations, and bearing capacity measurements, our experts identify the root causes of pavement distress and develop solutions tailored to the operational constraints of each airport.

Objective of Runway Diagnostics

Visible pavement defects often represent only part of the problem.

Cracking, deformation, rutting, or loss of friction may result from:

- structural fatigue;
- insufficient bearing capacity;
- material aging;
- increased aircraft traffic;
- drainage deficiencies;
- design or construction issues.

A pavement diagnostic identifies the underlying causes of deterioration, helping airport operators avoid unnecessary or ineffective repairs and make informed investment decisions.

It provides the technical foundation for a sustainable airport asset management strategy.

A Comprehensive Analysis of Airfield Pavements

Our engineers combine pavement survey data with operational information and infrastructure characteristics to develop a complete understanding of pavement condition.

Pavement Distress Analysis

We assess all forms of deterioration affecting runways, taxiways, and aprons, including:

- longitudinal and transverse cracking;
- alligator cracking;
- raveling;
- surface deformation;
- joint deterioration;
- previous repair areas;
- localized pavement failures.

This analysis helps determine the severity of defects and their potential impact on airport operations.

Structural Assessment

Using deflection testing, geotechnical investigations, and pavement material analysis, we evaluate the structural performance of airport pavements.

This assessment enables us to:

- determine pavement bearing capacity;
- identify weakened pavement layers;
- locate critical areas requiring attention;
- estimate remaining service life;
- anticipate future strengthening requirements.

Functional Assessment

In addition to structural performance, we evaluate key operational characteristics such as:

- runway friction;
- longitudinal roughness;
- ride quality;
- drainage performance;
- compliance with applicable standards and regulations.

The objective is to ensure both operational efficiency and aviation safety.

Bearing Capacity Assessment and ACR/PCR Evaluation

Airport pavement diagnostics may include bearing capacity assessments and ACR/PCR calculations.

These studies allow airport operators to:

- verify compatibility between pavements and aircraft fleets;
- anticipate future traffic developments;
- identify operational limitations;
- support airport expansion or rehabilitation projects.

By understanding pavement capacity, airport managers can make informed decisions regarding current and future aircraft operations.

Prioritizing Maintenance and Rehabilitation Actions

Not all pavement defects require immediate intervention.

One of the primary objectives of a diagnostic study is to prioritize maintenance and rehabilitation needs according to:

- risk level;
- operational constraints;
- expected rate of deterioration;
- available budgets;
- airport performance objectives.

This approach helps maximize investment efficiency while maintaining high standards of safety and operational performance.

Deliverables

The deliverables vary depending on the measured characteristic and the equipment used, and they can all be centralized in the user-friendly platform M.A.O.R.I.E. This way, all your data is located in one place, allowing for a more dynamic and efficient analysis.

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Benefits

Thus, runway diagnostics allow you to:

- - better understand pavement condition
  - accurately identify deterioration
  - prioritize maintenance actions
  - optimize maintenance strategies
  - improve cost control

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MORE INFORMATION?

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