The Houston Airport System (HAS) selected APTech, working as a subcontractor, to complete several comprehensive pavement condition assessments as part of its asset management strategy to maintain its pavement infrastructure. APTech was chosen for this work due to our experience performing the airport pavement management system (APMS) update in 2014. This project involved concurrent efforts at three airports maintained by HAS (Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport, Houston William P. Hobby Airport, and Ellington Field) and required APTech to manage large volumes of accurate data and integrate them into the HAS PAVER databases.

This project entailed leading APMS updates at all three HAS airports. To begin, APTech performed a records review while updating the pavement inventory and network definition. APTech then collected pavement condition data by georeferencing each distress on runways, taxiways, and select aprons using tablet computers paired with GPS units. APTech staff filtered the collected distress data according to the ASTM D5340-20 PCI methodology prior to uploading into the PAVER database for each airport. APTech also performed FWD testing and analysis to assess structural integrity of the pavements and provided a runway grooving assessment. As part of this work, APTech also developed a capital improvement plan (CIP) and an infrastructure condition assessment using metrics established by HAS. APTech concluded this project by developing a final project report and providing HAS employees with PAVER training.

Because of APTech’s work, the HAS staff can now make asset management decisions across their pavement networks using geo-referenced data down to an individual slab-level. The collected information allowed HAS to easily retrieve the physical condition, remaining service life, and operational impact of each pavement asset throughout their airfield networks. Additionally, by geo-referencing each distress the maintenance work plans are based on actual locations and dimensions of work quantities. Due to HAS’ satisfaction with this project, APTech was recently awarded another contract as a subconsultant to incorporate the remaining aprons and shoulder pavements into their pavement management system.

In advance of the 2028 Olympics, Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) is planning improvements for the North Airfield to enhance its airfield operational management and safety as part of the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) Airfield Improvement Program (AIP). These affected areas include the exits and runway keel section of Runway 6L-24R and Runway 6R-24L. As part of the selected design team, Applied Pavement Technology, Inc. (APTech), as a subcontractor to HNTB Corporation (HNTB), provided pavement design services to develop multiple rehabilitation and new construction alternatives for the taxiways, along with shoulder and blast pad pavements and erosion control areas. APTech also performed structural testing to assess the structural remaining life of the Runway 6L-24R pavements.

APTech reviewed available geotechnical testing results and aircraft traffic data for the anticipated project locations and developed pavement design alternatives in accordance with FAA Advisory Circular 150/5320-6G, Airport Pavement Design and Evaluation, and using FAA’s FAARFIELD pavement design software. Geotechnical testing indicated a wide range of subgrade support conditions across the project area. Additionally, traffic demands varied by taxiway, with the high-speed exits having arrival aircraft (lighter weights). The design team worked with LAWA to determine appropriate aircraft traffic mixes and anticipated growth rates for the associated runways and taxiways. Both 20-year and 40-year designs were assessed. Based on the varying field conditions and anticipated traffic, a matrix of pavement cross sections was determined, with advantages and disadvantages provided for each alternative. APTech also conducted falling weight deflectometer (FWD) testing on Runway 6L-24R and analyzed the data to determine in place layer properties and to assess the structural remaining life using the FAA’s FAARFIELD software.

As part of this project, APTech offered customized solutions to fit LAWA’s needs. Pavement designs were selected to be cost-effective and meet traffic demands. APTech recommended concrete for the departure pavements (Runway 6R-24L and Taxiway E) and high-speed exit taxiways pavements (Taxiways W, V, U, and S), with the high-speed taxiway pavements being slightly thinner overall. Asphalt pavements were selected as more cost-effective alternatives in the non-traffic areas such as the shoulder, blast pad, and erosion control areas.

Based on the structural assessment of Runway 6L-24R, APTech determined that at least portions of the asphalt overlay would likely need to be replaced within about 5 years. The design team noted that unbonded areas determined through the evaluation are anticipated to show fatigue cracking from acting as thin layers under aircraft traffic loads, and APTech recommended they be removed and replaced. These improvements will enhance the safety of passengers and airport employees and ensure the airport will be able to handle the additional traffic anticipated for the Olympics.

Applied Pavement Technology, Inc. (APTech) worked as a subcontractor to update the PMP for the runways and taxiways at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT). This project included approximately 20 million square feet of pavement and was built on a program previously completed in 2017 for CLT’s runway and taxiway pavements. Runway and taxiway shoulder pavements were incorporated into the PMP as part of this project, providing the client with more comprehensive information about their airfield pavements. The project was complemented by a Pavement Management Program (PMP) for apron pavements, completed by APTech in 2020.

This project consisted of multiple phases. The first phase focused on pavement analysis, which included reviewing relevant pavement maintenance and construction records, performing PCI inspections, conducting FWD testing, and developing a coring plan. On-site work was completed during nightly closures. APTech customized the PAVER database to determine the maintenance and rehabilitation (M&R) needs, which were used as a starting point for developing a 5-year capital improvement plan (CIP). Subsequent analysis consisted of calculating PCNs and PCRs, along with calculating structural remaining life of each aircraft-trafficked pavement section. APTech submitted a comprehensive project report and executive summary documenting the methodologies used, data collected, and results of the analysis for the runway and taxiway PMP update. APTech also participated in a series of meetings throughout the project to facilitate coordination and communication of results.

The second phase of this project included on-call pavement assessments as requested by CLT to determine the ability of certain pavement areas to accommodate aircraft operations outside of the typical aircraft fleet mix. The final phase consisted of performing annual (4 years in total) non-destructive testing on a sinusoidal longitudinal joint constructed along Taxiway M, analyzing the data to calculate the load transfer efficiency, assessing the relationship to or change from previous results, and providing the data to the Federal Aviation Administration’s William J. Hughes Technical Center as part of ongoing research.

APTech’s work on the PMP allowed CLT staff to manage their valuable runway and taxiway pavement infrastructure in an efficient, cost-effective manner, considering both functional and structural conditions. Results of this project brought engineering, planning, and maintenance staff together to continue improving their airfield pavement infrastructure.

APTech has provided pavement management, evaluation, and design services to the Kansas City Aviation Department (KCAD) for projects at Kansas City International Airport for more than 15 years. During our most contract, ongoing since 2020 as a subconsultant, APTech performed the 2021 and 2024 PMP updates, as well as airfield pavement evaluation and design projects for Runways 9-27 and 1L-19R and for Taxiways C and E. These services include PCI inspections, PAVER updates and analysis, FWD testing and analysis, PCN and PCR calculations.

PMP Update

In 2021, the KCAD partnered with the HNTB-APTech team to update to the airfield PMP. The project included over 23 million square feet of airfield pavement on runways, taxiways, and terminal apron pavements. The project also incorporated the overhaul base apron. APTech began this project by reviewing the construction records and updating the PAVER database and associated maps to reflect construction and rehabilitation work that had occurred since the previous update. APTech also led the pavement condition index (PCI) inspections (assisted by HNTB staff), identified maintenance and rehabilitation needs, developed a recommended capital improvement plan (CIP), and documented the results and recommendations in a project report and corresponding executive summary. The HNTB-APTech team are currently conducting the 2024 PMP Update. In addition to the tasks completed during the 2021 Update, the APTech team is also determining Pavement Condition Ratings (PCR) for runway pavements to comply with the FAA requirements. 

Evaluation and Design Services

Based on needs identified in the PMP project, in 2022, APTech performed an evaluation and preliminary design for Runway 9-27. APTech began this project by performing falling-weight deflectometer (FWD) testing to conduct a structural analysis of the asphalt-surfaced pavement on the runway. APTech then developed a geotechnical testing plan based on initial review of the FWD data. APTech also assessed the PCN and PCR for this runway based on testing results and current traffic. The results of this analysis were used to develop a short- and long-term rehabilitation plan for this runway.

Also in 2022, APTech performed a structural analysis of the aging concrete pavement along Taxiway E, which was exhibiting durability cracking. APTech conducted FWD testing and provided an associated analysis while offering input into a geotechnical investigation. The results of this work led to pavement surface reconstruction recommendations.

In 2020, APTech performed pavement design services for the planned reconstruction of Runway 1L-19R, which serves as the airport’s primary runway. APTech began this project by reviewing available records, including data from a previously conducted preliminary evaluation. The APTech team then developed runway reconstruction design alternatives, performed a life-cycle cost analysis (LCCA), and created a detailed pavement design report. Following reconstruction of the runway, APTech also reviewed PCR calculations completed by HNTB.

In 2020, APTech also conducted an in-depth evaluation of Taxiway C (east of Runway 1R-19L) to develop a rehabilitation plan. This project involved reviewing design and construction plans, past pavement studies, and traffic details. APTech also performed FWD testing as part of the evaluation and developed pavement rehabilitation and reconstruction alternatives. The APTech team also created an LCCA of feasible alternatives to allow KCAD to determine the most cost-effective work approach. Following construction of a pavement overlay along a portion of Taxiway C, a B747 aircraft was improperly tugged across the pavement causing surface damage. To assess the extent of the surface damage, APTech partnered with TREKK, who took UAS-captured aerial images to better assess repair costs.

APTech’s work at KCI demonstrates our team’s ability to customize multiple projects to fit the unique needs of individual airports. This project also illustrates APTech’s experience with pavement management and evaluation projects within the FAA’s Central Region.

Since 2005, APTech has been on a short list of on-call consultants providing management services to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ). Over that time, APTech has updated the pavement management systems at:

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in 2012, 2014, and 2016

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in 2007, 2010, and 2014

LaGuardia Airport (LGA) in 2007, 2010, 2019, 2021, and 2022

Stewart International Airport (SWF) in 2013, 2019, 2021, and 2022

Teterboro Airport (TEB) in 2005, 2006, and 2010

The updates at JFK, EWR, SWF, and LGA included both the airside and landside pavement systems, while only the airside pavements were inspected at TEB. APTech has also performed similar services for other PANYNJ facilities, such as the Lincoln Tunnel, the Holland Tunnel, and the George Washington Bridge pavement complexes, along with pavement management system (PMS) updates in 2020 and 2021 for Bayonne and Goethals Bridge, and Outerbridge Crossing. In 2021, APTech updated the pavement management systems for Port Jersey and Port Newark-Elizabeth Marine Terminals.

For each project, APTech conducted a records review and used automated data collection equipment to collect pavement surface condition, transverse and longitudinal profile, rutting data, and right-of-way imaging. We performed shoulder and erosion pavement evaluations, as well as skid testing on select airside and landside pavements. In addition, APTech updated PANYNJ’s PAVER database with inventory changes, recent construction details, and pavement condition data to develop pavement condition index ratings for each pavement section.

Detailed distress maps were generated using data collected from EDGE, APTech’s automated data collection vehicle on select pavements at JFK and Lincoln Tunnel. APTech also developed pavement performance models to predict the PCI of each pavement section over the next 7 years and to determine when each pavement section drops below Authority-established trigger values. Maintenance and rehabilitation plans were developed to highlight the pavement rehabilitation needs and project activities, results, and recommendations were summarized into a project report. Finally, APTech provided training to PANYNJ staff on pavement management concepts, pavement distress types and causes, and use of PAVER software.

PANYNJ uses the information from the pavement management projects to manage its vast pavement system at all of its facilities, including airports, marine terminals, tunnels, and bridges. The use of the EDGE automated data collection vehicle to generate distress maps amidst JFK’s busy aircraft operations demonstrates the technology’s value. Additionally, this project involved coordinating with a subconsultant to provide lighting services for nighttime inspections of the shoulders. APTech completed this large-hub airport PMS project without impacting its busy aircraft operations. APTech is currently continuing services under an additional IDIQ agreement.

In 2020, following a qualifications-based selection, Jackson Municipal Airport Authority (Authority) entered into a contract with Applied Pavement Technology, Inc. (APTech) to implement an airport pavement management system (APMS) for Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (JAN) and Hawkins Field Airport (HKS). The project is nearing completion, with only the capital improvement plan (CIP) development and report delivery tasks remaining. The deliverables for this project will provide the Authority with a planning tool to utilize reaching both short- and long-term goals.

For both airports, APTech started the project by reviewing all relevant records and developing a network definition. From there, a network-level pavement condition index (PCI) inspection, along with a structural assessment to determine the pavement classification number (PCN), was conducted. APTech also conducted falling-weight deflectometer (FWD) testing and a geotechnical investigation, which are being used in the development of a multi-year CIP. A PAVER database for inventory, construction history, and PCI data was created and updated with the findings from this project. Finally, APTech implemented its interactive web-based pavement management tool, IDEA to allow for easy access to the data collected during the APMS updates.

The Authority places a high importance on preserving pavement infrastructure, and APTech’s pavement management services will allow for them to proactively manage their pavement assets and make the most efficient use of their funding dollars. The detailed implementation of an APMS will provide the Authority with a framework to prioritize their rehabilitation needs, as well as justification to obtain any future funding needs. The web-based IDEA will allow for easy access to the results and recommendations without the need to learn how to use complicated pavement management software.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) consistently ranks as one of the top ten busiest airports in the United States and is a vital link in the nation’s transportation system. Since 2013, the City of Phoenix has relied on APTech to provide airfield pavement assessment services and recommendations. We have performed these updates in 2013, 2016, and 2019, and was again reselected to provide these services in 2022.

The primary goals of the project were to update the airport pavement management system (APMS) and to develop a maintenance and rehabilitation (M&R) plan for the airside pavements at PHX.

To accomplish this goal, we performed detailed pavement inspections in accordance with the Pavement Condition Index (PCI) procedure and conducted a simplified inspection of the vehicle service roads, reporting general conditions of each section, and estimating the timing for rehabilitation.

During past projects, APTech performed FWD testing and the associated data analysis to evaluate the properties of the pavement and subgrade layers. We referenced that testing data to determine Pavement Classification Ratings (PCRs) for the airfield pavements using current traffic data, bringing the airport into compliance with updated FAA strength reporting requirements. APTech also measured and assessed the condition of the transverse saw-cut grooves on the runways and high-speed taxiways. Using these results in conjunction with PAVER, we identified and prioritized pavement rehabilitation projects—along with associated costs—to enable the City to plan for their capital improvement needs.

In addition, APTech continued support of its web-based interactive pavement management data visualization tool, IDEA, for PHX to disseminate information, results, and recommendations of the APMS in an easy-to-access format.

As with any busy commercial-service airport, we worked closely with PHX Operations throughout the duration of field work to coordinate safe and efficient inspections that reduce strain on the airport’s operations. Although the PCI inspections were delayed for several months due to ongoing construction work on the airfield, we expedited the inspections once airside access was allowed to keep the project on track.

We understand the importance of listening to client needs and adapting as they change. Throughout almost every iteration of our PHX pavement assessments, the scope has been tailored to address the current and continually changing needs of the City and the airport. The findings and recommendations from this project allow the City of Phoenix to maintain their extensive airfield pavement network in a cost-effective manner. The City has closely followed the recommendations from previous updates, resulting in continued improvement of the airfield pavement condition. 

The Houston Airport System (HAS) implemented an asset management strategy to maintain its pavement infrastructure as efficiently and effectively as possible. As part of this strategy, HAS selected a firm to complete several comprehensive asset condition assessments in 2013. We were selected as a subcontractor to take advantage of the firm's extensive Airport Pavement Management System (APMS) experience. This project involved concurrent efforts at all three HAS airports and the management of large volumes of high-accuracy pavement data, structural, and other data was integrated into the HAS databases.

Our role included updating the APMS for the airfield pavements at Houston Bush Intercontinental Airport and Houston Hobby Airport. We mapped pavement distresses on the runways and taxiways at both airports. We also performed FWD testing at Houston Hobby Airport and developed Pavement Classification Numbers at both airports. We used the results to develop maintenance and rehabilitation recommendations for the runways and taxiways at the airports. We were also able to assist in the delivery of business process recommendations to HAS for more efficient management of airfield assets in the future.

The Airport Consultants Council (ACC), founded in 1978, is an international association created to advance airport consulting, represent the interests of airport consultant firms, and bring together experts of the aviation industry. Applied Pavement Technology, Inc. (APTech) has been involved with the ACC since the inception of the company in 1994.

Since 2003, APTech staff have developed and conducted workshops and classes for the ACC, including Techniques for Airfield Pavement Maintenance, Repair, & Rehabilitation and Airport Pavement Design & Evaluation. The Airport Pavement Design & Evaluation Workshop has been held once to twice a year in various locations across the United States, assisted by senior Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) staff. Professionals who enroll in the course include airport engineers and designers, airport maintenance and operations staff, pavement design and repair consultants, FAA staff, and aircraft manufacturers.

In recent years, the pavement design class has expanded into the Airport Pavement Design, Evaluation, and Analysis Workshop and it is regularly updated to reflect changes in the FAA’s pavement design advisory circular, FAARFIELD (the FAA’s associated pavement design software), and COMFAA (their Pavement Classification Number calculation software).

Since 2013, together with the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) and Delta Airports Consultants, Inc., Applied Pavement Technology, Inc. (APTech) has provided the lead instructor for the Airport Pavement Maintenance and Evaluation Workshop. This workshop provides information needed to:

Establish an effective airport pavement management and maintenance program,

Understand the performance of pavements and how to evaluate them,

Identify the characteristics of a good pavement management and maintenance program, and

Learn the current repair techniques used in the industry.

The workshop also helps airport officials make informed decisions about the maintenance of their pavements and address special considerations such as minimizing impacts on users, maximizing airport safety, and adapting to their local operating environments. The format of the workshop provides a forum that allows attendees to network with industry colleagues on common pavement maintenance challenges and address issues appropriate to both general aviation and air carrier airports.

In 2023, the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) partnered with APTech as a subcontractor for the for the rehabilitation of the General Aviation (GA) apron, Taxiways P and Q, and associated connector taxiways at Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BNIA). These pavements consist of a variety of concrete and asphalt cross sections with varying construction ages. Due to age and deterioration, the pavements required rehabilitation to maintain safe operations for the GA section of the airport.

This project included the preliminary and final pavement design. To begin, APTech reviewed the results of the planned geotechnical investigation and the existing pavement records. Next, the APTech team conducted nondestructive deflection testing using a falling weight deflectometer. The results provided a wealth of information about the load-carrying capabilities of the pavement, which APTech used in conjunction with the results of the records review to develop design alternatives. The design strategies were determined in accordance with FAA Advisory Circular (AC) 150/5320-6G, Airport Pavement Design and Evaluation and using FAA’s FAARFIELD pavement design software. The results of the data review, analyses, and recommendations for the project were presented in a detailed pavement design report.

The pavement design alternatives developed for this project included reconstruction with a new concrete or asphalt pavement and rubblization of the taxiway pavements followed by an asphalt overlay. The reconstruction alternatives removed all older pavement materials that could negatively impact construction and performance due to continued deterioration. Reconstruction also allowed existing grades to be maintained, such as at hangar locations, and created improved support, especially in the apron areas. Rubblization allowed a significant portion of the taxiway to be reused, reducing the amount of material removal and new material construction. Project specifications were also developed for the included pavement materials.

Located in Warwick, Rhode Island, T. F. Green International Airport (PVD) is a small-hub airport that routinely offers international flights. The asphalt pavement was showing deterioration and needed to be restored to maintain operations. Working as a subcontractor, APTech performed pavement evaluation and design services for the rehabilitation of Taxiway C at PVD. The portion of Taxiway C located within approximately 800 feet adjacent to Runway 5-23 was also reconstructed and realigned to address geometric concerns.

This project included the preliminary and final pavement design. To begin, APTech reviewed the results of the planned geotechnical investigation and the existing pavement records. Next, the APTech team conducted nondestructive deflection testing using a falling weight deflectometer. The results provided a wealth of information about the load-carrying capabilities of the pavement, which APTech used in conjunction with the results of the records review to develop design alternatives. The design strategies were determined in accordance with FAA Advisory Circular (AC) 150/5320-6G, Airport Pavement Design and Evaluation and using FAA’s FAARFIELD pavement design software. The results of the data review, analyses, and recommendations for the project were presented in a detailed pavement design report.

Multiple rehabilitation alternatives were considered, including asphalt surface replacement, full-depth reclamation, and concrete overlay. While these alternatives were structurally feasible, the taxiway required additional pavement structure to accommodate the anticipated aircraft traffic. The additional structural requirements for these alternatives made matching existing grades at each end of the section difficult. Milling a portion of the existing asphalt surface and placing a new asphalt overlay was not considered because of the deteriorated condition of the existing asphalt. A new asphalt pavement was ultimately selected.

The Columbus Regional Airport Authority (CRAA) has a robust pavement management program (PMP), which they have updated on a 3-year cycle since its initial implementation in 1997. For its 2021/2022 PMP update, CRAA selected Applied Pavement Technology, Inc. (APTech) to perform pavement management services at John Glenn Columbus International, Rickenbacker International, and Bolton Field Airports. APTech also led PMP updates for CRAA in 2018/2019, 2009, 2006, 2003, and 2001.

As the prime contractor, APTech was responsible for the overall project. To begin the project, APTech reviewed records for recently completed pavement projects and used the information to update pavement network details on maps and in PAVER. From there, APTech collected pavement condition data for airside and landside pavements at John Glenn Columbus International Airport and Rickenbacker International Airport and for the landside pavements at Bolton Field. APTech lead the manual PCI inspections with assistance from a local Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) firm, who was mentored throughout the process. APTech inspected the roadway pavements at John Glenn Columbus International Airport using APTech’s Enhanced Data Gathering Equipment (EDGE) vehicle, avoiding the need for traffic control and night work on these busy public-use roads. APTech also incorporated airside Pavement Condition Index (PCI) data for Bolton Field, which was provided by the Ohio Department of Transportation (DOT).

APTech analyzed pavement condition data for all six pavement networks and identified maintenance and rehabilitation (M&R) needs. The team also integrated inventory and condition data into CRAA’s existing GIS platform. To close the project, APTech developed a report that presented the results and recommendations both for the system as a whole and by airport and network (presenting airside and landside pavements separately).

APTech worked closely with CRAA to tailor the type of data collected, the method used for collection, the type of results and recommendations assessed, and the way the data was accessed. The most recent project added GIS integration of data into their existing system, allowing CRAA staff access to the results. Results from these projects provide CRAA with current condition information and M&R recommendations to cost-effectively maintain their extensive pavement network.

Since 2008, APTech has served as the pavement management consultant for the Wayne County Airport Authority (WCAA), providing services at both Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) and Willow Run Airport. APTech served as the prime consultants from 2008 to 2016 and served as subconsultant for the 2018 and 2022 pavement management program (PMP) updates at DTW through an on-call contract, while still playing a lead role.

APTech began the latest PMP update by reviewing construction records to update the existing airport network definition maps. Our team then assessed the conditions on runways, taxiways, shoulders, aprons, and blast pads using the Pavement Condition Index (PCI) methodology and entered the data into the airport’s PAVER database. APTech’s engineers then used the data to forecast future pavement conditions through performance modeling and helped develop a capital improvement plan to cost-effectively address the airport’s pavement-related needs. APTech also completed a structural evaluation, determining Pavement Classification Ratings (PCRs) for the runways. During previous updates, APTech determined a foreign object damage (FOD) potential index for each pavement section and performed falling weight deflectometer (FWD) testing on the runways.

This project came with multiple unique challenges. WCAA has added additional pavements into the system during almost every update since 2008. Such updates require meticulous project administration and strategic thinking to create a logical hierarchy within the pavement network for data collection and management. Additionally, because of the way WCAA uses data, gate areas on the terminal apron were divided into individual pavement sections to prioritize needs and better align with the way the airport completes repairs and rehabilitation. The team also worked with the airport to avoid impacting operations by performing PCI inspections overnight using artificial lighting. The project timeline set by the airport required that APTech conduct PCI inspections during the winter in northern Michigan, which necessitated schedule flexibility by the team to work around inclement weather to stay on schedule.

The project concluded with the development of a final report, an abridged executive summary, and IDEA—APTech’s web-based interactive and user-friendly data visualization tool. By including deliverables in a variety of formats, stakeholders with various levels of pavement engineering familiarity were able to engage with the project’s results and understand the importance of effective pavement management. WCAA places a high importance on preserving pavement infrastructure, and APTech’s pavement management services allow them to proactively manage their pavement assets and make the most efficient use of their funding dollars.