Dublin Airport is to spend an estimated €60m upgrading its existing runway and improving a number of other infrastructure elements.
"Recent studies have determined that the runway does not have sufficient structural strength for the projected aircraft movements over the next 15-20 years and a rehabilitation of the pavement is required," the DAA has told prospective contractors.
It added: "The condition of a number of other very critical assets in the vicinity of runway 10/28 has also been assessed over the last number of years. Through these assessments, it has been determined that the assets must be rehabilitated within the next two to three years in order to sustain airport operations and reduce the risk of a system failure."
The DAA noted that it finds it difficult to even locate spares for its critical but aging approach lighting system.
The existing main runway was built in 1989 and in 2010 was overlaid with a substance to allow for improved friction for aircraft. That scheme, which cost about €7m, had a design life of between six and eight years.
and also upgrading after Emirates requested for Q3 15 or Q1 16:
The works the DAA has sought tenders for also include the upgrade of lighting on the runway; taxiway upgrades; additional infrastructure for bigger aircraft such as the A380; and new signage.
Dublin Airport plans major runway works as part of ?60m spend - Independent.ie