North Runway Operations

North Runway Restrictions

YVR’s North Runway was originally constructed in 1996. Prior to construction, the federal Transport Minister approved YVR’s request to build the runway in 1992 following a lengthy environmental assessment process – including an independent review by an Environmental Assessment Review Panel.

In granting approval for the runway, the Minister made 22 environmental commitments that YVR must follow – 10 of which are related to noise. As part of these commitments, the following restrictions are in place for the North Runway:

• No operations between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., except during emergencies and airfield maintenance.
• Use is primarily for landings between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.; however, take-offs are permitted during emergencies, airfield maintenance, and peak periods when traffic demand approaches capacity limits.
• Minimal use of reverse thrust consistent with safe operating procedures

While all operations on the North Runway are conducted in accordance with the Minister’s restrictions, YVR often receives questions or concerns about the following uses.

Night-time Use During South Runway Maintenance and Project Work

Just like roads and highways, the runway system requires regular, ongoing maintenance with some construction projects to maintain safe and resilient operations.

Because the South Runway is in use 24 hours, YVR is required to close this runway on selected nights to undertake necessary maintenance and project work. On these nights, the North Runway is used for all take-offs and landings between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.

The maintenance and project schedule is posted on YVR’s website to help neighbors know when to expect changes to normal runway operations. The schedule is reviewed regularly and updated as needed. The exact duration and frequency of the closures will depend on the amount and type of work to be done.

Departures During Daytime

While the North Runway is used mainly for landings between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., the runway can be used for take-offs during emergencies, airfield maintenance, and peak periods throughout the day to reduce delay. At YVR, peak periods normally occur during the summer months when air traffic volume is high. Teams review flight schedules before each summer and winter season to determine if and when the North Runway may be used for departures.

North Runway Use Statistics

The annual runway use statistics are available in YVR’s Annual Noise Report.

Do you have additional questions?

Please contact YVR Noise Management.