Could Runway Construction Ruin Your Trip? Here’s How to Find Out

You might plan to take a different route on your road trip if Google Maps alerts you to road construction. With airport runway construction you don’t exactly have that option, but, like highways, airport runways need repairs on occasion.

If your arrival or departure airport is undergoing runway construction, you may see an increase in flight delays. There’s no such thing as an alternative take-off or landing route at an airport, so even if just one runway is closed due to repairs, more airlines will likely be fighting for runway space—creating delays. But there is a way to find out about this issue before it happens.

How to Check for Runway Construction

Concerned that your next flight could be affected by runway construction? The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) keeps an updated, online list of which airports in the United States are currently undergoing “construction related activity.” You can check it here.

If you’re worried about a tight connection, make sure that your departure and connecting airports aren’t on the list before booking anything, and definitely check before heading out for your flight so you can anticipate any potential delays. Note that this list shows all airport construction, which could mean the work is being done inside the terminal and might not affect your flight, so it’s best to consult your airport (or its website) directly.

More from SmarterTravel:

• This Website Can Get You Money for Flight Delays or Cancellations
• Air-Passenger Rights: The on-the-Go Guide
• 16 Ways to Get Through the Airport Faster

Caroline Morse is a Senior Editor with SmarterTravel. Follow her on Instagram @TravelwithCaroline and Twitter @CarolineMorse1 to see her adventures around the world.