Project Principles and Objectives
The Foxtrot Fillet project was an airside critical works package designed to be delivered on nights with five hour working windows. Ryebridge was tasked with constructing a surface widening area on the Foxtrot curve to increase the size of the safe trafficking area for airplanes. The construction was full-depth and the project also included edge light relocating and lining.
On the first night we removed the edge lights and stripped the top soil, removing all material from the site as in an airside environment nothing can be set aside. At the same time, following the soil strip, we imported the required stone to ensure the excavated area was at the right height, thereby de-lethalising the taxiway so it was the same level as the runway.
Over the following nights we removed the stone and laid Dry Lean Concrete to build to the right level, we then began the surfacing courses with binding and subsequent wearing. There was more significant works at the tie-in to existing where we planed and resurfaced.
Finally, the Ryebridge team also relocated the edge lights and lined the taxiway and cleared the site.
Project Works and Key Quantities
Removal of 124m3 of top soil;
Imported 233 tonnes of stone;
Laid 90t of Dry Lean Concrete.
Innovation and Best Practice (VE)
The works for each phase and handover were complete on time and on budget with 100% safety record.
All works were completed with no disruption to airport operations, despite the complications of working airside with the need to arrange passes, escorting and security, with the site cleared by 4.30am every night ready for inspection.
Experience of working in airside environments and managing a significant volume of subcontractors is essential. In addition to this, gaining such knowledge over time spent completing these works has reinforced our ability to plan for things that would not be expected. Ryebridge remains solution-focused, adaptable and client-centric.
