Page 177 - 인천국제공항 4단계 건설사업 건설지 [화보집 영문]

Reducing runway occupancy time: design
The ultimate goal of constructing Runway 4 was to increase capacity and ensure

stable airport operations by improving runway and taxiway systems. The existing
runways had focused on enhancing capacity to accommodate Code F superjumbo
aircraft like the A380, in line with Incheon Airport’s strategy as a hub airport.
However, with the rise of low-cost carriers (LCCs) and the shift in aviation

trends during the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a significant increase in
the operation of Code C smaller aircraft. In response to this trend, the design of
Runway 4 included the installation of 8 Rapid Exit Taxiways (RETs), the first
of their kind in Korea, to reduce runway occupancy time and thereby increase

runway capacity. Additionally, the use of central taxiway connections was
increased to reduce aircraft travel distances, further contributing to shorter runway
occupancy time.
First, the Total Airspace & Airport Modeller (TAAM) simulation tool was

used to analyze the optimal location and cost-effectiveness of the RETs. Their
effectiveness was then verified through consultations with relevant agencies and
experts. The analysis showed that runway occupancy time could be reduced from
73 seconds to 56 seconds, and the number of takes off landings per hour could

increase by 17%, from 91 to 107 operations per hour. Throughout the design
process, the opinions of operators and users were actively incorporated. To align
with shifting aviation trends and airline preferences, the design was adjusted to
include 4 Multi Aircraft Ramping Systems (MARS), stands for Code E aircraft,

and additional aircraft waiting spaces in the apron. To enhance operational
efficiency in winter, the design also incorporated a centralized de-icing zone
optimized for engine-on de-icing and provided waiting areas within the de-
icing zone to ensure smooth aircraft flow. Furthermore, stop bars for pilots were

introduced to improve the coordination of aircraft movement.

174 PART.4 | Achieving the 100-million-passenger era | Phase 4 construction project 175