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The inauguration of the new 1.410-meter runway, scheduled for 2025, promises to transform Macaé Airport into a strategic hub for the offshore sector and the economy of the Northern Fluminense region. Learn more about the details of the project, its economic impacts and the advances in regional aviation.
First of all, it is essential to mention that the Macae Airport, located in North Fluminense, is about to undergo a major transformation. The new 1.410 meter runway, scheduled to open on first half of 2025, mark u
m significant advance towards the terminal.
This work, which began in February 2023, was completed in December 2024, according to information released by Porto Diary. Now, the project is in the process of approval by National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC), a crucial step for the track to officially begin operating.
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Furthermore, it is worth noting that this modern infrastructure was designed for larger aircraft, which will considerably increase the airport's operational capacity. In this way, Macaé consolidates itself as one of the main strategic hubs of the offshore sector in Brazil.
Why is the new track so important?
Firstly, it is essential to understand that the new track does not just represent a structural improvement. In reality, it symbolizes a strategic advancement for Macaé Airport, which will become the first terminal in Brazil with an offshore operational base to have two tracks.
The works on the new runway were planned since 2022when Zurich Airport Brazil dealership presented the modernization project to the aviation sector. With the start of works in 2023, the airport was adapted to ensure that helicopter operations, essential to the offshore sector, remained uninterrupted.
So, check out the main features of this new infrastructure:
- Runway length: 1.410 meters, ideal for C-code aircraft.
- Total investment: R $ million 220, value destined exclusively for construction and improvements.
- Completion of the work: December 2024, with approval expected in first half of 2025.
Additionally, the project included:
- Modern beacon and lighting systems, essential for greater safety and efficiency.
- Expansion of the aircraft yard, now with capacity for ten helicopters.
- Planting grass and installing fences, increasing the protection of the operational area.
With this infrastructure, the airport will be able to meet the growing regional demand, promoting even greater integration between offshore logistics and national air transport.
What benefits does the new runway bring to the offshore sector?
Without a doubt, the offshore setor will be one of the biggest beneficiaries of expansion of the capacity of Macaé Airport. Since its granting to Zurich Airport BrazilOn 2021, the terminal has undergone a series of improvements to meet the growing demand of the oil and gas industry.
Therefore, during the construction period of the new runway, which began in February 2023, helicopter operations for the offshore sector continued without interruption. This commitment was highlighted in articles published by Infra Agency and by Porto Diary.
Among the expected benefits, we can highlight:
- Attracting new airlines, interested in exploring the terminal’s potential.
- Greater capacity for transporting passengers and cargo, essential for the offshore sector.
- Strengthening Macaé's strategic position, expanding its relevance in the national and international market.
The impact of this modernization can already be seen in the increase in the number of passengers. Thus, only in the first half of 2024, but of 102 thousand passengers passed through the terminal, number released by National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC).
An investment that represents a commitment to the future
Since the concession of the airport to Zurich Airport BrazilOn August de 2021, the terminal has been receiving significant investments for modernization and expansion. For the construction of the new runway, R $ million 220, a value that reaffirms the commitment to the future of regional aviation.
The execution of the work was led by Well Fly Consortium, formed by two renowned companies: Barbosa Mello Construction Company e Engeform. In addition, these companies worked together to deliver the infrastructure on time, completing the works in December 2024, without compromising terminal operations.
In addition, the concessionaire has also invested in improvements to the passenger terminal and support infrastructure, preparing the airport to meet future demands in the sector.
When will the new runway be in operation?
Even with the works completed, the operation of the new runway depends on approval by ANAC, scheduled for the first half of 2025. Therefore, this step is essential to ensure that all technical and safety requirements are met before operations begin.
According to information from National Civil Aviation Agency, the approval process involves:
- Detailed technical inspections of the track and safety systems.
- Operational tests to verify the functionality of the infrastructure.
- Final approval, ensuring that the runway is suitable for larger aircraft.
So it's only a matter of time until the Macaé Airport reaches its full operating capacity.
What will be the economic impacts of the new runway?
In addition to the direct benefits to aviation, the new runway will bring significant impacts to the regional economy. First of all, the North Fluminense will further consolidate itself as a strategic hub for the oil and gas industry, especially with the increase in offshore operations.
Thus, it is possible to observe the economic impacts in three main areas:
1. Advancement of the oil and gas industry
From 2019, when Macaé Airport began to receive more investments, it has become a key player in oil and gas logistics. Now, with the new runway, the sector will have even more agility and efficiency.
2. Stimulating tourism and investment
Furthermore, the increase in operational capacity will open doors for tourism and new investments in the region, strengthening the local economy.
3. Strengthening regional logistics
Finally, the expansion will benefit transport and logistics companies, essential for the movement of cargo and passengers in the North of Rio de Janeiro.
The future of Macaé Airport
In summary, the new runway at Macaé Airport, without a doubt, represents a historic milestone for regional aviation. In addition, it not only significantly improves the physical infrastructure, but also, equally importantly, has an extremely positive impact on the economy, logistics and, above all, the offshore sector.
Thus, with the approval expected for 2025, Macaé Airport will be prepared to consolidate itself as one of the main terminals in Brazil, both for air transport and offshore operations.
Therefore, as reinforced by the Porto Diary and Infra Agency, the region is facing a new era of development and opportunities.
THE LANDING AND TAKE-OFF RUNWAY SHOULD BE EXTENDED BY 1.800 METERS!, TO ENSURE LANDING AND TAKE-OFF OF OFFSHORE CARGO PLANES AND CUSTOMS FACILITIES OF THE FEDERAL REVENUE AND POST OFFICE!