Huntsville International Airport Completes Major Airfield Modernization; Reopens East Runway Following Refurbishment

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (April 24, 2026) – The Port of Huntsville announces the full operational restoration
of the East Runway (18L/36R) at Huntsville International Airport (HSV), marking the conclusion of an
extensive $12.3 million rehabilitation of the runway and selected connectors. Funded through grants
from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the project ensures the airport continues to meet the
rigorous demands of both international logistics and a growing commercial aviation passenger market.
The East Runway was last rehabilitated in 2009.
“Infrastructure is the foundation of our regional competitive edge,” said Joey Ceci, Port of Huntsville
Board Chair. “By investing in our runways today, we ensure that Huntsville remains a preferred hub for
international commerce and a top-tier choice for the thousands of travelers who fly with us every day.”
The East Runway is 10,000 feet in length, and the 14-month mill and overlay project brought
significant upgrades to the east airfield. Garver Engineering consulted on the project, and Rogers
Group was the general contractor. Along with repavement of the runway, the scope of work included
rehabilitation of the runway shoulders and the installation of eco-friendly LED lighting. These important
upgrades maintain HSV’s status as one of the few airports in the United States, alongside hubs like
New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, capable of handling Group VI aircraft, such as the Boeing 747-8
freighter and Antonov AN-124, the largest cargo aircraft in the world.
“The reopening of the East Runway is a major operational milestone,” said Butch Roberts, HSV CEO.
“These improvements allow us to seamlessly manage the world’s largest cargo aircraft alongside our
busy schedule of commercial, military and general aviation flights. It keeps our operations safe,
efficient, and ready for the continued evolution of the aviation industry.”
The next chapter in HSV’s evolution could be commercial space flight. Huntsville International is
licensed by the FAA to land the Sierra Space Dream Chaser on the East Runway at HSV.
HSV remains equally focused on providing premier service to air travelers. The airport serves as a vital
gateway for North Alabama and the Tennessee Valley, hosting a robust selection of commercial
carriers including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Breeze Airways and Allegiant Air
providing 18 nonstop destinations.