The reconstruction of the main runway at Cork Airport is set to commence from Monday.

Cork Airport is investing over €40 million between 2020-2022 to upgrade and enhance critical infrastructure at the facility.

This is the biggest investment in Cork Airport since the construction of the new terminal, multi-storey car park, maintenance and other buildings and roads in 2005/06.

The reconstruction of the main runway will take place over the next 10 weeks from Monday September 13, along with the upgrading of the airport's approach, airfield and ground lighting, runway edge and centreline lighting together with all of its drainage and ducting systems. 

Cork Airport will reopen on the morning of November 22 following the completion of these works.

As part of this capital programme, Cork Airport is also investing in the construction of a new Electrical Sub-Station for the airport in early 2022. 

All of these projects have sustainability and green energy efficiency as a priority. Cork Airport has recently completed an upgrade of its Hold Baggage Security screening system at the airport to insure that checked in baggage complies with the latest and highest international standards.

Colas was awarded the main runway contract following an extensive EU tender process. The project to reconstruct the main runway (16/34) is being supported by Government funding of €10 million from the Department of Transport, announced in November 2020.

The reconstruction of Cork Airport’s main runway will be the fastest large-scale construction project undertaken in the State in recent years - 12 months from funding approval to the completion of the main works – encompassing EU tendering, design, regulatory approvals and construction.

Niall MacCarthy, Managing Director at Cork Airport said: "All of us at Cork Airport welcome this investment and are fully committed to a strong, growing and vibrant airport into the future."