Feb. 17, 2024 by AirfieldNews
TweetScheduled 2027 Renovations at Eindhoven Airport to Disrupt Operations
Eindhoven Airport is slated for a significant renovation project between February and June 2027, aiming to enhance the infrastructure at the adjoining Dutch Air Force base. While an exact commencement date remains unconfirmed, the Ministry of Defence has opened the project's tendering process to interested contractors until February's end. Following this, six candidates will be selected to vie for the contract.
The extensive renovation will focus on upgrading the Air Base's runway, alongside installing new lighting, cabling, and drainage systems. A pivotal aspect of the project involves elevating the airport's Instrument Landing System (ILS) from Category 1 to Category 3. This upgrade will facilitate precision landings in conditions of low or no visibility, fulfilling a longstanding aspiration for the airport. The transition to a Category 3 ILS is estimated at a cost of 10 million euros.
Concerns Mount Over Impact on Dutch Travel
The proposed renovations have sparked anxiety within the travel industry, anticipating the cancellation of approximately 17,000 flights. This disruption is expected to affect around 3 million passengers, redirecting them to alternate Dutch airports for their travel needs. Despite the potential impact, the Defence Ministry-owned airport has yet to issue a formal statement regarding the closure.
The travel association ANVR has voiced significant concern, highlighting Eindhoven's role as a crucial hub for the Netherlands, accommodating 6.9 million passengers yearly and accounting for 10% of the country's air transport. "The 22-week closure necessitates the reallocation of flights to other airports," an ANVR spokesperson remarked, underscoring the logistical challenges and the importance of Eindhoven in the national and regional travel landscape.
#Eindhoven Airport