23 Aug 2019

Offutt runway closure delayed 10 months

The 55th Wing’s runway replacement at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, has been pushed back from December 2019 to October 2020. The ten-month delay of the runway closure allows for demolition and earthwork to begin before winter. This sets up the program to be in the asphalt and concrete work phase by spring 2021 and wrapping up the needed inspections and Federal Aviation Administration approval to reopen in the twelfth month of work. Sections of Offutt’s current runway are more than 70 years old. Regular maintenance is required to sustain safe flight conditions. The replacement, which is projected to cost approximately $176 million between Offutt and Lincoln, sets up the 55th Wing’s global intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance mission to continue from Offutt for at least 20 years before any major maintenance is required.