Case Study
Václav Havel Airport Runway
Introduction
The Czech Republic is home to some of the most fascinating European cultural heritage sites, including the Historic Centre of Prague, which developed between the 11th and 18th centuries. In 2016, Prague was ranked sixth in the Tripadvisor world list of best destinations. One way to get to Prague is via the Václav Havel Airport, which served around 17 million passengers in 2018.
Challenge
The growing air traffic combined with pavement deterioration prompted the airport authority to modernize 26,000 m2 (31,000 sq yd) of the existing runway surface. The new surface needed to provide long-lasting resistance to common airport pavement distresses such as derailment, cracking, water and frost damage or fatigue. Furthermore, the solution needed to be delivered while the airport was in operation.
Resolution
To address the challenge, the airport authorities decided to implement the Orbiton HiMA solution provided by Orlen Asfalt and developed based on HiMA technology. Skanska construction company laid down 300 mT of stone mastic hot mix asphalt, which used the Orbiton HiMA 25/55-80 bitumen grade. With the new surface in place, Prague airport is ready to welcome growing numbers of visitors from around the world.