Russia's first aluminium-coated runway promises enhanced aerodrome infrastructure

Russia is set to introduce its inaugural aluminium-coated runway designed for small and light aircraft at a nearby airfield. This innovative solution, a rarity in the country, promises to bolster the development of local and regional aerodrome infrastructure, enhancing transport accessibility, particularly in remote areas.

As reported by RuAviation, RUSAL’s press service released an agreement on collaboration in research and development, as well as the construction of an experimental aluminium-made runway, which has been inked between RUSAL and MASS GROUP.

This initiative will involve the participation of esteemed institutions in the field, with plans to conduct a series of experiments to address regulatory constraints related to utilising aluminium mats in runway construction.

The Russian aluminium giant, Rusal, said, "This will be the first such facility in Russia. The length of the experimental runway will be up to 600 m, and it will take approximately 300 tonnes of hardened aluminium alloy. Several operating aerodromes are being considered as possible options for its location."

A senior official from RUSAL stated that aluminium runways offer a more efficient and eco-friendly option for advancing civil aviation, especially in regions with challenging accessibility.

The official added, "Due to its strength and anti-corrosion properties, aluminium can replace the traditionally used concrete, and due to the light weight of this material, transportation and construction costs will be significantly reduced. According to our calculations, the total price of a full-fledged runway, including logistics, installation and operating costs, will be 15-20 per cent lower than a concrete runway."

Aluminium coatings have a longstanding history in runway construction, dating back to the mid-1960s during the Vietnam War. US Navy Seabees construction battalions were instrumental in building runways for high-performance jet fighters such as the F-4 Phantom, F-100 Super Sabre, and F-105 Thunderchief. They utilised AM-2 aluminium mats to cover the combat airfields, becoming the preferred solution for US Army airfield construction in Vietnam.

Alexander Sobolev, the General Director of MASS GROUP JSC, emphasised the successful deployment of aluminium helipads across diverse regions of Russia, even in challenging climatic conditions. These helipads guarantee safety during take-off and landing operations for helicopters of all classes, ranging from light models to heavy cargo vehicles like the Mi-26.

Alexander added, "The successful operation of aluminium coatings as landing pads for helicopters influenced the decision to develop an aluminium runway. This is a serious challenge for us, but we believe in the success of aluminium solutions. Together with the developer of aluminium aerodrome panels, Sial Group, and RUSAL's support, we plan to solve all technical problems, which will be a real breakthrough for the civil aviation infrastructure."