On 11 August, it was revealed by Hubei International Logistics Airport Co., Ltd that Ezhou Huahu Airport has initiated "dual-runway operation," promising substantial improvements to the airport's operational efficiency.
Recently, under the guidance of the controller at the East Tower of Ezhou Huahu Airport, a B747 all-cargo aircraft performed a smooth landing on the East Runway. At the same time, a Huaxia Airlines flight bound for Chongqing was preparing for takeoff on the West Runway. This marked the start of "dual-runway operation" at Ezhou Huahu Airport, a momentous step since its commencement on July 17, 2022. This initiative officially introduced the parallel runway instrumentation test operation for the airport.
It is reported that the testing comprises three modes: isolated parallel operation, independent parallel departure, and corresponding parallel instrument approach. This comprehensive testing will be carried out gradually over a span of more than a year. During the isolated parallel operation, the two runways will be designated for distinct purposes: one for aircraft take-offs only and the other for aircraft approaches only. In the independent parallel departure phase, both east and west runways can accommodate simultaneous take-offs. Finally, the relevant parallel instrument approach mode permits two aircraft to approach and land with a certain interval, meanwhile aligning with the airport's runways. These three modes would effectively enable Ezhou Huahu Airport's dual runways to support simultaneous aircraft take-offs and landings, embodying the true essence of "wing to wing" operations.
As Huahu Airport's cargo route transfer progresses in a well-organized way, the airport has experienced a notable surge in night flights. In July, Ezhou Airport, with only a single runway, facilitated a total of 402 all-cargo flights, with 286 taking place during nighttime, constituting over 70% of the total flights. The upgrade to "dual-runway operation" is set to significantly amplify Ezhou Huahu Airport's nighttime operational efficiency. Upon the completion of the cargo route transfer by September this year, SF Airlines will regularly utilize both runways for take-offs and landings, potentially guaranteeing over 80 nighttime flights at Ezhou Huahu Airport.
The incorporation of the East Runway into the airport's operations will lead to a denser flight track over Ezhou. A representative from Hubei International Logistics Airport Co. emphasized, "Ezhou Huahu Airport's capacity is on a steady rise, with the spokes network becoming increasingly optimized. This will further enhance its status as a cargo hub."