Commercial Tar & Chip for Airport Runways and Taxiways: A Runway to Reliability
Introduction: Airports are bustling centres transportation centres, with thousands of flights taking off and landing daily. The safety and reliability of airport runways and taxiways are paramount to ensure smooth air travel. Commercial tar & chip, also known as chip seal, has gained recognition as a practical choice for surfacing airport runways and taxiways. In this blog post, Hawkhurst Driveways explores the benefits of using commercial tar & chips for these critical aviation facilities.
1. Exceptional Durability
Airport runways and taxiways face constant heavy traffic from aircraft of various sizes and weights. Tar & chip surfaces are renowned for their durability and ability to withstand the immense pressure and wear and tear associated with aviation operations. They resist cracking and rutting, ensuring that runways and taxiways remain safe for aircraft.
2. Skid-Resistant Surface
Safety is paramount in aviation, and skid resistance is critical to prevent accidents during takeoff, landing, and taxiing. Tar & chip surfaces provide excellent skid resistance, reducing the risk of runway excursions and ensuring that aircraft can stop safely, even in wet or slippery conditions.
3. Low Maintenance
Airport operations leave little room for extensive runway maintenance. Tar & chip surfaces are known for their low maintenance requirements. Regular sweeping and occasional resealing are typically all needed to keep the surface in excellent condition, reducing maintenance costs and minimising disruptions to air travel.
4. Rapid Installation
Efficiency is key at airports, and construction or repair projects that disrupt operations can lead to delays and financial losses. Tar & chip surfaces can be installed relatively quickly, minimising downtime and ensuring that runways and taxiways can return to service promptly.
5. Cost-Effective Option
Airport budgets require cost-effective solutions that provide value for investment. Tar & chip runways and taxiways offer an economical choice compared to alternatives like asphalt or concrete. Airports can have durable and visually appealing surfaces without exceeding their financial constraints.
6. Resistance to Weather
Airports are exposed to various weather conditions, from heavy rains to intense sunlight. Tar & chip surfaces are designed to withstand such weather conditions, remaining stable and reliable throughout the changing seasons. They resist erosion caused by rain and the damaging effects of freeze-thaw cycles.
7. Enhanced Safety Measures
The skid resistance of tar & chip surfaces can be further enhanced by adding special aggregates to improve braking and reduce friction, ensuring that aircraft can safely navigate runways and taxiways.
Conclusion: Commercial tar & chip surfaces offer a reliable and cost-effective solution for airport runways and taxiways, providing exceptional durability, skid resistance, low maintenance requirements, rapid installation, cost-effectiveness, weather resistance, and enhanced safety measures. Whether you are responsible for maintaining airport runways or planning new facilities, tar & chip surfaces can contribute to aviation operations’ safety, efficiency, and reliability. Hawkhurst Driveways is here to assist you in designing and installing commercial tar & chip surfaces that perfectly match your airport’s unique needs and challenges.
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