Work to improve the runway at LF Wade International Airport is set to start this month, Skyport said today.

The company added that the project would “represent a significant advancement in airport safety and operational efficiency” by improving visibility for approaching aircraft.

It said: “The project involves the installing of new LED lighting technology and increasing the height of the descending runway lighting towers by four meters to maintain clearance over public roads.

“Once completed, pilots approaching Runway 30 will have enhanced levels of visibility for landing.”

The first phase of the work, as highlighted in a recent planning application, will involve using barges with cranes for pile driving and marine construction in Annie’s Bay, near Clearwater Beach.

This phase is expected to last 18 weeks, with the pile driving expected to be completed within the first six weeks of the work.

The pile hammering will take place between 7am and 10am, Monday through Saturday, to align with flight operations and minimise disruption to the community.

Pile drilling works will be carried out between 11pm and 7am.

Warren Moulaison, Skyport’s director of facilities and asset management, said: “Completion of the piling works is essential as it is critical to the planned runway approach lighting upgrades.

“Skyport will take extensive measures to ensure these works are completed on time to minimise disruption to the neighbouring community.”

The spokeswoman said that work areas near Annie’s Bay will be cordoned off, with signs to warn the public about construction around the bay and adjacent areas near Clearwater Road.

The $4.9 million runway approach lighting project is part of Skyport’s multi-million-dollar capital investment in Bermuda’s airport.

In addition to the new passenger terminal, which opened in 2020, the company will fund necessary maintenance and capital expenditures relating to the terminal, cargo facility, parking lots, runways, taxiways and aprons throughout the life of its 30-year concession.

Mr Moulaison added: “We are enthusiastic about this upgrade and are confident it will further enhance our operational efficiency and safety standards.”

Planning documents said the upgrades and refurbishments included in the project were needed for “life-cycle replacements for the existing deteriorating piers and lighting”.

A report by a technical officer said the existing lighting system was outdated and the piers in the bay were both below the 150-year storm surge elevation and only accessible by boat, with no walkways interconnecting them.

“The proposed works would address all of these points, which is considered to outweigh the minor environmental and visual impacts,” the report said.