San Antonio International Airport Closes Main Runway for Two Months: Will Flights Be Delayed?

San Antonio International Airport (SAT) is beginning a major airfield improvement project. The airport will close its primary commercial runway, Runway 13R-31L, for nearly two months. This temporary closure runs from January 12 through March 6. The goal is to perform essential pavement rehabilitation and system upgrades.

Airport officials have stated they do not expect flight delays for passengers. The closure was coordinated with the FAA Traffic Control Tower and all air carriers. This planning aims to minimize operational impacts during the construction period.

Scope of Airfield Improvements

The construction focuses on critical maintenance for the 8,502-foot runway. Crews will replace sections of worn concrete pavement. They will also upgrade the runway’s electrical lighting system. This upgrade involves installing modern, energy-efficient LED technology. New pavement markings will also be re-established across the impacted sections.

This work is part of a larger, $90 million airfield improvements contract. The overall project includes drainage work and pavement rehabilitation. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is partially funding this effort. Funding comes through the Airport Improvement Program (AIP).

Deputy Aviation Director Tim O’Krongley emphasized the work's importance. He stated these improvements are vital for a safe and reliable airfield. The rehabilitation will extend the runway's functional life. This is necessary until a full reconstruction can be completed later.

Operational Impact and Air Traffic

SAT is a three-runway airport. During the closure of Runway 13R-31L, all aircraft operations will shift. Landings and take-offs will be exclusive to the remaining crosswind Runway 4/22. This change in operations is expected to create temporary winter air traffic patterns.

• The airport averages about 260 daily departures and arrivals.
• Coordination with air traffic control is complete.
• The full closure allows construction crews continuous access. This approach avoids unnecessary delays and reduces overall construction time.

While officials project minimal disruption, passengers should check with their specific airline. The airport serves 14 airlines flying non-stop to 45 destinations. Any significant weather event during the closure could potentially challenge the single-runway operation.

Long-Term Development Context

This runway work is an important step in SAT’s long-term strategy. It aligns with the airport’s approved $2.5 billion, 20-year Strategic Development Plan. That plan calls for a new terminal and major airfield upgrades. The goal is to accommodate projected growth and the needs of passengers. The plan also explores future runway improvements, including a potential extension. This extension would accommodate larger passenger and cargo aircraft.

For more commercial aviation news and industry analysis, visit flying.flights. The ongoing investment at San Antonio International reflects a national trend. Airports are upgrading infrastructure to meet modern Airbus and Boeing aircraft standards and rising passenger demand.