The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) today announced that construction for the Runway 5/23 Safety Area (RSA) at L.G. Hanscom Field is scheduled to begin in mid-August. Construction is expected to last approximately 3 months and will include the periodic closure of Runway 5/23 during normal construction hours. Most of the Runway 5/23 traffic consists of the smaller aircraft that use the airport. When Runway 5/23 is closed, Runway 11/29 will handle all air traffic.

Massport is undertaking this $3 million safety project to comply with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) RSA regulations. The RSA project does not require any additional pavement and it will not change how the runway is used. It involves re-grading of pervious areas at the two runway ends. Residents are encouraged to contact Massport's Office of Government and Community Affairs at 617-568-3711 with any questions or concerns.

Hanscom Field is home to the largest concentration of jets based in New England, Hanscom houses 60 jet aircraft ranging in size from the new Eclipse 500 VLJ to the Global Express and Challenger aircraft. Located in Bedford Mass., Hanscom Field is a popular airport for business executives looking for convenient access to Eastern Massachusetts and "America's Technology Region"; situated along the Route 128/95 and Route 495/3 corridors.

Hanscom Field is a vital link to domestic and international destinations for local companies. With its modern facilities, Hanscom is New England's premier full-service corporate and general aviation airport, contributing more than $180 million to the regional economy each year.

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