Newsroom
03.11.2023
EMAS Aircraft Arresting System | Safeguarding Runway Safety and Economic Viability
In the fast-paced world of aviation, safety is paramount. The consequences of a runway overrun can be devastating, not only in terms of human lives but also economically. Have you ever considered the impact of an overrun? The answer is not as simple as it may seem.
How much would it cost in brand recognition?
For airlines and airports, a runway overrun incident can be a significant blow to their reputation. News of accidents spreads rapidly in today’s digital age, and a single incident can tarnish the brand image that airlines and airports work so hard to maintain. Passengers may become apprehensive about using an airport or airline with a history of safety issues, and it can take years to rebuild trust. The cost in brand recognition can be immeasurable.
How much would it cost to lose an aircraft?
The financial implications of losing an aircraft in a runway overrun are substantial. Aircraft are incredibly expensive, and insurance may not fully cover the cost of replacing or repairing a damaged one. Additionally, the loss of an aircraft can lead to operational disruptions and increased expenses, affecting an airline’s bottom line. Beyond the immediate costs, the loss of an aircraft can have a lasting impact on an airline’s fleet and capacity.
How much would it cost for an airport to have a runway shut down?
When a runway overrun occurs, not only is there the immediate cost of managing the incident and potential damage to airport infrastructure but there are also long-term consequences. The closure of a runway can disrupt flight schedules, lead to flight cancellations, and result in the rerouting of flights to other airports. This can have a ripple effect, affecting airport revenue, airline relationships, and the local economy. The cost of a runway shutdown can run into millions of dollars.
So, what can be done to mitigate these risks and safeguard both human lives and the economic viability of airlines and airports?
This is where the Engineered Material Arresting System (EMAS) comes into play. EMAS is a technology designed to provide a reliable and effective means of stopping an aircraft that overshoots the runway. It consists of lightweight, crushable materials installed at the end of a runway, which safely decelerates an aircraft and stops it from leaving the paved surface.
By incorporating EMAS, airports and airlines can significantly reduce the risks associated with runway overruns. The cost of installing EMAS is a fraction of the potential expenses related to accidents, aircraft losses, and runway closures. Moreover, it can help protect the brand image of airlines and the operational efficiency of airports.
In conclusion, the impact of a runway overrun can be staggering, both financially and in terms of brand reputation. By investing in technologies like EMAS, airports and airlines can proactively manage these risks and ensure the safety of passengers and their economic viability. EMAS is not just an expense; it’s an investment in safety and long-term success. The question to ask is not “How much does EMAS cost?” but rather “How much can you afford not to have it?”
Do you want to learn more? Contact us today!
23.10.2023
EMAS Maintenance Cost: How to Preserve Your Investment
The Importance of Maintenance for EMAS Arresting System: Ensuring Passengers’ Safety
As an airport operator, investing in an Engineered Materials Arrestor System (EMAS) is crucial to ensure passengers’ safety. EMAS is an innovative safety strategy that prevents aircraft overruns and is designed to stop an airplane in the event of a runway overrun or undershoot. However, like any investment, proper maintenance is crucial to preserving its effectiveness and prolonging its lifespan.
Preserving Your EMAS for 20 Years: Key Maintenance Strategies
To ensure that your EMAS investment lasts for the next 20 years, it’s essential to incorporate the following maintenance services into your airport pavement routine maintenance plan.
Inspections should be conducted monthly to identify issues before they become major problems. EMAS experts can often spot issues that airport operators may not notice, and an annual inspection can help identify and address potential problems before they worsen.
Field Strength Tests* (FSTs) are interior measurements that help determine the bed’s performance and strength over time. By conducting an FST, you can predict how long your bed will last and when to begin discussions about bed replacement.
Proper training can help with repairs, incursion, and regulatory compliance. If you’re operating in the US and own a 139 airport, you’re required to have certification on file every 24 calendar months. Training can help you repair tape, shields, and trays correctly and efficiently.
Seam Seal Rehabilitation* (SSR) is necessary to prevent water from entering the EMAS. Like the roof of a house, seam seals reduce entry points. Allow experts to monitor your EMAS to determine when it’s time to change the seals.
Using precise and tested repair materials from Runway Safe optimizes your EMAS bed’s performance.
Service agreements can provide multi-year customized solutions and discounts to avoid delays due to policies and procedures.
Don’t Let Your EMAS Lose Effectiveness: Incorporating Maintenance into Your Airport Plan
Incorporating the Life Cycle Management team at Runway Safe into your airport master plan can guide you in maintaining and preserving your EMAS for the next 20 years.
In conclusion, proper maintenance is essential to preserve your EMAS investment. You can ensure your EMAS’s optimal performance and protect your passengers’ safety by incorporating inspections, FSTs, training, SSR, repair materials, service agreements, and Runway Safe’s Life Cycle Management team, you can ensure your EMAS’s optimal performance and protect your passengers’ safety.
For more information, visit Runway Safe’s LinkedIn, Facebook, or YouTube, or email dana.peffer@runwaysafe.com.
*Only for the EMASMAX product.
02.10.2023
Runway Safe Group initiate partnership with SARSYS-ASFT
Runway Safe is pleased to announce that we will be the exclusive distributor in North America for the SARSYS-ASFT product suite. With this partnership Runway Safe will enhance the protection of the runway environment with Continuous Friction Measuring Equipment (CFME), Runway Weather Information System (RWIS), Multi Information Data Assessment System (MIDAS), SNAp 2.0 – For the Global Reporting Format (GRF) and product/customer service to existing SARSYS customers.
“Runway Safe is excited for this collaboration opportunity to connect with more customers and provide additional runway safety equipment. With this additional product offering we can further support our mission to improve safety and enhance the data to support informed operational decisions”, says Todd Gressick, responsible within Runway Safe for the partnership.
“Working with Runway Safe give us additional opportunities to provide safety solutions for runways in North America. We have invested in enhancing our range of products and solutions and together with Runway Safe and their experience and knowledge as a trusted partner to many airports in USA we see this as a perfect set-up. Two industry leaders, SARSYS-ASFT and Runway Safe, unite the expertise to redefine aviation safety and pave the way for innovation that ensures safer landings and takeoffs. Our partnership is the runway to a brighter, more secure future in aviation and we are thrilled and excited to launch this partnership”, says Fredrik Graflind, CEO of SARSYS-ASFT.
About Runway Safe Group
Runway Safe Group offers unique and tailormade runway safety systems for airports all around the world. Our safety systems are designed by experienced engineers and approved by aeronautical regulatory bodies. The Engineered Material Arresting System (EMAS) is a passive safety system that quickly de-accelerates an aircraft and brings it to a safe stop in case of an overrun.
Runway Safe arresting system is a passive safety system, and the only one in the world meeting FAA Advisory Circular AC150/5220-22B with installations spanning more than 80 airports in 5 continents. We are proud that our arresting systems have a 100% successful performance record making 21 overrun arrestments to date saving human lives, protecting assets and infrastructure, and improving runway safety.
About SARSYS-ASFT
Swedish company SARSYS-ASFT is the world’s leading developer and manufacturer of Continuous Friction Measuring Equipment (CFME), and provider of cutting-edge ITS and Road and Runway Weather Information System (RWIS). SARSYS-ASFT is vertical integrated and ISO 9001 certified which are both key pillars to maintain its leading position.
The products include computerized technology for monitoring factors such as friction, freezing points, early ice warning-systems, precipitation, ground frost, ice deposit growth, camera-surveillance systems among other.
For further information, please contact:
Todd Gressick: Todd.Gressick@runwaysafe.com, +1-856-508-0593 or,
Fredrik Graflind: fgr@sarsys-asft.com, +46-411 651 00.
22.09.2023
Runway Safe’s arresting system EMAS, is expected to be perfect when an imperfect event occurs.
Safety can never be compromised when a runway excursion occurs!
Safety is our mission! Our priority is to improve airport operational safety in the event of an aircraft runway excursion. Excursions are the most common type of aviation accident worldwide. Almost one out of four aviation accidents involve a runway excursion. However, excursions are one of the few accident types where the airport operator has an influence on the outcome.
EMAS arresting systems are installed at the end of the runway when a full-dimension runway safety area is not practical. It is a cost-effective way of improving safety where runway safety area distance is limited by site conditions. EMAS arresting system does not only replace RESA but also increases safety in situations with tabletop mountains, roads, railroads, waterways, buildings, environment restrictions, or other obstacles close to runways.
Our arresting systems are fully accepted by the FAA and fully comply with the international aviation authority guidelines of ICAO Annex 14.
The arresting system is a passive safety system, meeting FAA Advisory Circular AC150/5220-22B, and thus requires no action on the part of air traffic controllers or pilots. It is configured to safely stop an aircraft in the event of a runway excursion by exerting predictable deceleration forces on its landing gear as the material deforms bringing the aircraft to a controlled stop. Our arresting systems are fully accepted by the FAA and fully comply with the international aviation authority guidelines of ICAO Annex 14.
No EMAS arresting system is ever installed unless it’s supported by a validated design method that predicts the performance of the system. As the saying goes, “each airport is unique” and so is each arresting system provided by Runway Safe. During the design phase, our performance engineers work together with the airport team and airfield consultants to optimize the performance of the arresting system within local restrictions. Our performance engineering team carries out complex analysis of over 100 variables for each operating aircraft, validating that our arresting system gives an optimized performance, tailor-made to each runway that accommodates an airport’s specific aircraft fleet mix.
To ensure that airports with Airport Operating Certificates are meeting the requirements of Part 139, Runway Safe staff are on-site during the complete installation to do quality control. The Runway Safe quality assurance program makes sure that all the materials and processes are checked throughout the installation until acceptance.
The Runway Safe arresting system is designed, and materials are selected for a technical lifespan of 20 years. With installations spanning 70 airports within 5 regions, Runway Safe offers tailored service agreements to assist operators in reaching or increasing the life expectancy of their runway arresting system. Our Life Cycle Management Team is available to work with each airport to create a customized plan based on the EMAS installation environment, size, and capabilities of the airport team maintaining the bed.
As a manufacturer of safety systems, we take our responsibility seriously. We are proud that our arresting systems have a 100% successful performance record making 21 overrun arrestments to date saving hundreds of human lives, protecting assets and infrastructure, and improving runway safety.
What’s at the end of your runway? If it’s a Runway Safe EMAS system, you know that it meets the highest quality and safety standards. Be assured that when you need us, we’ll be there!
11.09.2023
Mitigating Runway Overrun Risks with EMAS: A Proactive Approach
Runway safety is a top priority in the aviation industry, and proactive measures are crucial in reducing and minimizing injuries in runway overrun incidents. One such effective solution gaining momentum is the Engineered Material Arresting System (EMAS). In this article, we will delve into the unique capabilities of EMAS in mitigating runway overrun risks. By exploring its energy absorption properties, benefits to airport operations, and success stories from implemented EMAS projects, we aim to highlight the proactive approach EMAS offers in enhancing safety standards at airports.
Energy Absorption and Aircraft Deceleration
EMAS is engineered with materials designed to absorb and dissipate the energy generated during an aircraft’s landing overrun. These materials are strategically placed at the end of runways, forming a gradual deceleration system. When an aircraft overshoots the runway, EMAS compresses under its weight, allowing for controlled deceleration and bringing the aircraft to a safe stop. This unique capability reduces the risk of damage to the aircraft and infrastructure, significantly enhancing safety measures.
Minimizing Operational Disruptions and Financial Losses
Runway overruns not only pose a safety risk but also lead to operational disruptions and financial losses for airports. EMAS plays a vital role in mitigating these risks. EMAS arresting system can reduce the severity of accidents and minimize operational downtime, flight delays, and cancellations. This proactive approach enhances airport efficiency, preserves revenue streams, and safeguards the financial stability of airports and airlines.
Strengthening Airport Reputation, Passenger Confidence, and Regulatory Compliance
EMAS implementation positively impacts various aspects of airport operations. By demonstrating a commitment to safety, airports that embrace EMAS enhance their reputation as responsible organizations. This, in turn, boosts passenger confidence, attracting more travelers and potentially increasing revenue. Moreover, EMAS aligns with regulatory compliance standards set by aviation authorities, ensuring that airports meet and exceed safety requirements.
Conclusion
EMAS represents a proactive and effective approach to mitigating runway overrun risks. Its unique energy absorption capabilities and controlled deceleration properties contribute to the reduction of accidents, operational disruptions, and financial losses. By embracing EMAS, airports can enhance their reputation, instill passenger confidence, and meet regulatory compliance standards. Airports that have implemented EMAS serve as powerful examples of the system’s effectiveness in enhancing runway safety. As the aviation industry continues to prioritize safety, EMAS stands as a proactive measure that mitigates risks and fosters a culture of safety excellence at airports worldwide.
Chicago Executive Airport share experience of two successful EMAS arrestments – saving lives.
Interview with Andrew Wolanik, Director of Operations & Maintenance at Chicago Executive Airport – a business general aviation airport north of Chicago. Topics they address in the interview related to the two successful EMAS arrestments are: Weather conditions, lives saved, EMAS repair, recoveries, vehicle on EMAS, when they could open runway again, EMAS maintenance and […]
07.09.2023
Providing Swift and Cost-Efficient EMAS Solutions: Runway Safe’s Commitment to Airport Excellence
When it comes to runway overruns and EMAS arresting systems, Runway Safe is dedicated to ensuring the highest value for our airport partners. Our focus is not only on safety but also on minimizing downtime and costs for airports. Here’s how we deliver exceptional value to our customers:
Efficient EMAS Support: Minimizing Airport Downtime
In the unfortunate event of an overrun into an EMAS, our expert Life Cycle Management team swings into action promptly. Our goal is clear: to save our airport partners valuable time and money by minimizing runway downtime.
Overruns and Runway Disruptions: Understanding EMASMAX Systems
Historically, runway overruns can disrupt airport operations. However, with our EMASMAX arresting system, we ensure that the aircraft is swiftly removed from the EMAS within hours, minimizing runway disruption.
Active Communication and Assistance: Guiding Our Airport Partners
As part of our EMAS arresting system’s life cycle management initiative, we communicate actively with EMAS owners during overrun events. We provide clear guidance on how we can support them when an aircraft overruns into an EMASMAX arresting system.
Rapid Response and Damage Assessment: Swift On-Site Evaluation
Upon receiving notification from the airport, we dispatch our experts to the site within 24-48 hours. Their mission is twofold: to assess the damage scope and assist the airport in understanding the necessary steps for repair.
Reopening Runways: Expert Guidance on NOTAM Language
After removing the aircraft, we assist airports in issuing a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) to inform users of the reduced EMAS arresting system’s performance. This NOTAM is only in effect until the EMAS arresting system repairs are completed, ensuring a smooth return to normal operations.
Meeting FAA Requirements: Timely Repairs and Operational Considerations
While FAA guidelines recommend repairing the EMAS arresting system within 45 days, it’s important to note that this is a material specification, not an operational requirement. Airports are encouraged to repair systems promptly, but there are no penalties for exceeding the 45-day limit.
Targeted Damage Assessment: Precise Repairs by Runway Safe
Our damage assessment process ensures that only the damaged material is replaced, saving our partners unnecessary expenses.
Insurance Claim Advocacy: Encouraging Timely Repairs and Cost Coverage
We advise airports to consider an aircraft overrun as an insurance claim against the aircraft operator. This encourages insurers to expedite repairs, with all costs covered by the responsible party’s insurance.
Timetable for Repair Completion: Collaborative Planning
We work closely with EMAS owners to establish a repair timetable based on the damage extent. Our strategy encompasses everything from materials to project supervision, ensuring a smooth repair process.
Coordinated Repairs for Full Performance: Expertise in IMRO
Our Installation, Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (IMRO) team collaborates with airports to restore the damaged system to its full performance capability. This coordinated effort ensures a seamless return to normal operations.
At Runway Safe, our mission is to provide efficient EMAS solutions that benefit our airport partners. We prioritize safety, cost-efficiency, and minimal downtime to ensure that our customers receive the utmost value from our services.
Previous articles
Financial Responsibility in Overrun Incidents into EMAS:
Understand the financial aspects of overrun incidents into Engineered Material Arresting Systems (EMAS). Learn about airline responsibility, insurance coverage, airport liability, and legal considerations in managing financial responsibilities. Explore the factors that influence financial arrangements and the importance of insurance coverage and legal agreements.
30.08.2023
Enhancing Runway Safety: The Impact of EMAS Installation
Safety is of paramount importance in aviation, and airports continually strive to improve their infrastructure and implement measures that reduce the risk of accidents. One critical aspect of runway safety is the presence of an Engineered Materials Arresting System (EMAS). This article explores the significance of EMAS installations on airport runways and their role in enhancing safety compared to runways without such systems.
Understanding EMAS
EMAS is a specialized runway safety technology designed to safely decelerate an aircraft in case of an overrun or undershoot during takeoff or landing. It consists of crushable material placed at the runway’s end, progressively collapsing upon aircraft impact. The material rapidly decelerates the aircraft and brings it to a controlled stop, significantly reducing the potential for damage to the aircraft and injuries to passengers and crew.
Enhanced Aircraft Stopping Capability
An airport runway equipped with an EMAS provides an additional layer of safety by extending the aircraft’s stopping capability. In the event of an overrun, the EMAS absorbs the aircraft’s energy, helping to prevent it from colliding with surrounding obstacles, such as fences, buildings, or bodies of water. This capability is particularly crucial when runways have limited overrun areas or are located near populated areas or sensitive infrastructure.
Mitigating Runway Excursion Risks
Runway excursions, where aircraft veer off or overrun the runway, pose significant safety risks. EMAS installations serve as an effective tool for mitigating these risks by providing a dedicated, engineered buffer zone. The crushable material gradually decelerates the aircraft, reducing the likelihood of runway excursions and their potential consequences, such as damage to the aircraft, injuries, or even fatalities.
Protecting Passenger and Crew Safety
Passenger and crew safety is the foremost concern in aviation. EMAS installations contribute to this by providing an added level of protection. The system helps minimize the severity of incidents that may occur due to unforeseen circumstances, such as adverse weather conditions, pilot errors, or aircraft malfunctions. By reducing the risk of catastrophic outcomes during overrun scenarios, EMAS installations enhance the overall safety of the airport environment.
Cost-Effectiveness and Environmental Considerations
While EMAS installations require an initial investment, they can prove to be cost-effective in the long run. The system’s ability to prevent damage to aircraft and surrounding infrastructure can lead to substantial cost savings associated with accident investigations, repairs, and potential legal liabilities. Additionally, the use of crushable materials in EMAS contributes to environmental sustainability, as it minimizes the need for costly repairs and reconstruction of traditional concrete structures.
Conclusion:
The installation of Engineered Materials Arresting Systems (EMAS) on airport runways significantly enhances safety and mitigates the risks associated with runway excursions. EMAS installations protect passengers, crew members, and surrounding infrastructure by extending an aircraft’s stopping capability and providing a dedicated buffer zone. While the initial investment may be significant, the long-term cost savings and environmental benefits make EMAS a worthwhile safety measure. Airport authorities and regulatory bodies should continue to prioritize runway safety enhancements by considering EMAS installations as an integral part of their overall safety strategy, ensuring safer operations and instilling confidence in the traveling public.
Learn more in previous articles below:
EMAS Aircraft Arresting System | Safeguarding Runway Safety and Economic Viability
In the fast-paced world of aviation, safety is paramount. The consequences of a runway overrun can be devastating, not only in terms of human lives but also economically. Have you ever considered the impact of an overrun? The answer is not as simple as it may seem.
28.08.2023
Elevate Runway Safety: Choosing Runway Safe’s EMAS with FAA and ICAO Approval
Why Runway Safe’s EMAS System Stands Out as the Industry’s Leading Choice
In the world of aviation safety, making the right choice can be a matter of life and death. Runway safety is a paramount concern, and when it comes to choosing an Engineered Materials Arresting System (EMAS) solution, one name stands out as the epitome of excellence: Runway Safe.
With the stakes higher than ever, aviation authorities, airport operators, and stakeholders are seeking runway safety solutions that are not just innovative but rigorously endorsed by the most reputable aviation bodies. This is where Runway Safe’s EMAS system shines, boasting approvals by both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
The Gold Standard in Endorsement
What sets Runway Safe’s EMAS system apart is its unparalleled FAA and ICAO approvals. These endorsements are not mere stamps of acknowledgment; they are the hallmarks of an EMAS solution that meets the highest industry standards for safety and effectiveness. In a world where safety is non-negotiable, choosing a system with these approvals is a decision that safeguards lives, minimizes risks, and instills confidence.
ICAO: A Global Seal of Excellence
The ICAO’s stamp of approval signifies Runway Safe’s EMAS system’s adherence to a set of globally recognized safety standards. ICAO’s endorsement means that this EMAS system is designed to enhance runway safety universally, ensuring that airports around the world can trust in its effectiveness. This global recognition is not just a testament to the system’s engineering prowess but also a commitment to the safety of passengers, crew, and aircraft.
FAA: A Pinnacle of Trust
When the FAA approves an aviation solution, it’s not just an approval – it’s a demonstration of trust. The FAA rigorously evaluates safety systems to ensure they meet the most stringent criteria. Runway Safe’s EMAS system earning the FAA’s nod is a testament to its reliability, efficiency, and capability to prevent runway overruns.
Beyond Approvals: Performance and Innovation
While FAA and ICAO approvals are instrumental, Runway Safe’s EMAS system doesn’t stop there. The system’s performance speaks for itself, with successful installations around the world that have prevented accidents and enhanced runway safety. Runway Safe’s commitment to ongoing innovation ensures that the EMAS system remains at the forefront of safety technology.
The Choice is Clear
When the safety of lives and the integrity of an entire industry are at stake, the choice becomes evident. Runway Safe’s EMAS system, with its FAA and ICAO approvals, isn’t just a choice; it’s the choice that sets a new standard for runway safety. By choosing Runway Safe’s EMAS, aviation professionals, regulators, and stakeholders are making a commitment to safety that transcends borders and creates a safer future for all who take to the skies. In the realm of runway safety, Runway Safe’s EMAS system rises as the beacon of excellence, backed by the industry’s highest endorsements and driven by a relentless dedication to safety innovation.
Learn how we have helped our customers
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16.08.2023
Financial Responsibility in Overrun Incidents into EMAS:
When an overrun into an Engineered Material Arresting System (EMAS) occurs, the responsibility for covering the costs typically lies with the airline or aircraft operator involved. Here are some key points regarding the financial aspects of an overrun incident into an EMAS:
Airline Responsibility
The airline operating the aircraft is generally responsible for the costs associated with the overrun, including any damage to the aircraft, repairs, or replacement expenses. This responsibility is usually outlined in contractual agreements between the airline and the airport.
Insurance Coverage
Airlines typically have insurance coverage to protect against various risks, including aircraft damage. Depending on the specific insurance policy, it may cover costs related to overrun incidents in an EMAS. The insurance company may be involved in assessing the damage and processing claims.
Airport Liability
In cases where there is a defect or failure in the EMAS system itself, and it can be proven that the system did not perform as intended, there could be a potential liability on the part of the airport or the entity responsible for the installation and maintenance of the EMAS. However, such cases are relatively rare, as EMAS systems are designed and built to strict standards to ensure their reliability and effectiveness.
Legal Considerations
In the event of an overrun incident, legal proceedings may arise to determine liability and financial responsibility. This can involve investigations by aviation authorities, insurance companies, and potentially legal action between the parties involved, such as the airline, airport, and insurance providers.
It’s important to note that the specific details and financial arrangements in overrun incidents can vary depending on factors such as local regulations, contractual agreements, insurance policies, and the circumstances of the incident. It is advisable for airlines and airports to have appropriate insurance coverage and legal agreements in place to address such situations and allocate financial responsibilities.
Listen below to Chicago Executives’ overruns
Interview with Andrew Wolanik, ACE, Director of Operations & Maintenance at Chicago Executive Airport. Todd Gressick (Runway Safe) and Andrew Wolanik discuss their experience with Chicago Executives two EMAS beds. Chicago Executive Airport has had two EMAS arrestments, saving lives and assets. Andrew share their experience in terms of how long they had to shut the runway after an incident occurred, the repair of the EMAS, and maintenance of the bed.
Thank You Andrew for taking your time to share your experiences with EMAS beds.
Are you interested to learn more?
Feel free to contact us for more information.
13.10.2023
The Hidden Costs of Runway Excursions: Beyond Financial Implications to Brand Reputation
Runway excursions pose significant safety risks in aviation, but the consequences extend beyond immediate physical damage and potential injuries. The financial costs associated with these incidents are substantial, encompassing not only direct expenses but also indirect losses linked to brand reputation. This article delves into the multifaceted costs of runway excursions, exploring both the financial […]
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