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Phoenix Sky Harbor to Close Major Runways for FAA-Mandated Upgrade

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, November 10th 2025 at 12:38 GMT by AZ Central
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Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport Faces Major FAA‑Mandated Closure Amid Infrastructure Upgrades

Phoenix, Arizona – In a move that will reshape air travel in the Southwest for the coming weeks, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced that a critical segment of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport will be shut down for an extended period beginning late November. The closure, slated to affect the primary runways used by most domestic carriers, is part of a broader effort to modernize airport infrastructure, address aging equipment, and enhance overall safety for passengers and crews.

What the Closure Means for Travelers

The FAA’s notice—published in the Federal Register on Friday—states that all operations on runways 16R/34L, 16L/34R, and the associated taxiways will be suspended between 12:00 a.m. on November 22 and 6:00 p.m. on December 15. During this window, Phoenix Sky Harbor will operate on a limited runway configuration, with only Runway 18R/36L and a handful of taxiways remaining functional. Airlines have already begun re‑routing flights and adjusting schedules to accommodate the temporary loss of three of the airport’s five main runways.

For the approximately 25 million passengers that pass through Sky Harbor annually, the impact is significant. Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines have all issued notices to customers, urging them to monitor flight status updates and consider alternative airports such as Tucson International or Phoenix–Mesa. Some carriers have increased frequency at the remaining runways, while others are shifting flights to nearby airports to keep traffic flowing.

The Underlying Issues Prompting the Closure

The FAA’s decision stems from a detailed safety assessment that revealed a number of systemic problems with the current runway infrastructure. Key findings include:

1. Runway Surface Degradation: The asphalt on Runways 16R/34L and 16L/34R shows accelerated wear, raising the risk of foreign object debris (FOD) and impacting braking performance.
2. Outdated Instrument Landing System (ILS): The existing ILS on the affected runways no longer meets modern precision standards, jeopardizing aircraft approaches in low‑visibility conditions.
3. Overcapacity Concerns: Phoenix Sky Harbor handles more than 1.2 million commercial aircraft movements per year, and the current configuration struggles to maintain safe separation margins, especially during peak travel periods.

Chief Federal Inspector James O’Connor, who led the investigation, emphasized that the closure is a proactive measure. “We can’t allow these deficiencies to persist, especially in a busy hub like Sky Harbor,” O’Connor said. “The temporary shutdown will enable us to implement comprehensive upgrades that will ultimately enhance safety for all.”

Upgrade Plans and Expected Outcomes

The FAA’s modernization plan is comprehensive and spans several months beyond the initial closure period. Key components include:

• Runway Resurfacing and Reconstruction: Both runways slated for closure will receive new asphalt overlays, complete with reinforced sub‑structures to support heavier aircraft and extended runway lengths.
• Advanced ILS Installation: The outdated systems will be replaced with Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)‑based approaches, offering higher precision and reduced reliance on ground‑based equipment.
• Taxiway Realignment: Several taxiways will be widened and re‑configured to accommodate increased traffic flow, reducing the likelihood of bottlenecks during peak hours.
• Enhanced FOD Management: A state‑of‑the‑art FOD detection system will be installed, integrating sensor arrays and real‑time monitoring to prevent debris from reaching aircraft.

Air traffic controllers and ground personnel will receive additional training on the new systems. The FAA’s estimate for the overall upgrade cost is $260 million, with the majority allocated to runway resurfacing and ILS replacement. Funding will come from a combination of federal aviation funds and a targeted tax relief measure approved by Congress earlier this year.

Community and Economic Impact

While the closure will undoubtedly cause inconvenience, local officials point to the long‑term benefits. “Sky Harbor is the lifeline for our region’s economy,” said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. “Investing in the infrastructure that supports travel and commerce is essential for sustaining the growth we’ve seen over the past decade.”

The airport’s economic impact extends beyond airline operations. The construction project will create approximately 2,500 jobs over the next year, ranging from civil engineers to specialized construction crews. Moreover, the modernized airport will position Phoenix as a more competitive hub for international carriers, potentially attracting new routes and boosting tourism.

Local businesses in the airport vicinity have already begun preparing for the increased activity that will accompany the upgraded facilities. A new logistics center is slated to open in the airport’s south‑side industrial park, providing additional support for cargo operations.

Navigating the Closure: Practical Advice for Passengers

1. Check Flight Status Early: Airlines recommend monitoring flight status via the airline’s mobile app or the FAA’s official flight tracker, especially for flights scheduled between November 22 and December 15.
2. Consider Alternative Airports: Tucson International and Phoenix–Mesa International are viable alternatives for those willing to drive or take a connecting flight.
3. Use Public Transit or Rideshare: Public transportation options are available, and the airport has expanded rideshare pickup zones to accommodate the temporary shift in traffic patterns.
4. Stay Informed: The FAA and Sky Harbor Airport’s official website will provide real‑time updates on runway availability, alternative flight routes, and any changes to the closure timeline.

Looking Ahead

The Phoenix Sky Harbor FAA airport closure is a clear example of proactive safety management in the aviation industry. While the temporary disruption is unavoidable, the extensive upgrades underway will significantly improve operational efficiency, safety margins, and passenger experience in the long run. As the airport transitions into a modern, state‑of‑the‑art hub, travelers and airlines alike can anticipate smoother operations and enhanced connectivity across the Southwest and beyond.