Buffalo Niagara International Airport is proactively preparing for a significant winter storm expected to impact much of the Northeast, focusing on maintaining safe and efficient flight operations.
Bradley Wheeler, the airport’s manager of airfield operations, indicated that preparations commenced well before the storm’s arrival. “We’re expecting some significant snowfall in the area,” Wheeler remarked. The airport has been conducting weather calls and coordinating with various stakeholders to ensure readiness.
Inside the airport’s maintenance building, crews are currently inspecting and servicing snow-removal equipment to ensure it is operational when needed. In anticipation of the storm, airport officials have also ordered extra supplies, including sand, salt, and runway de-icing chemicals such as potassium acetate, which are crucial for keeping runways safe.
“We want to make sure our passengers can get out where they need to be as often and as frequently as possible,” Wheeler emphasized, acknowledging the challenges that winter storms present. The importance of de-icing during adverse weather is critical both for aircraft and runways, necessitating close collaboration between on-site contractors and airline partners.
Wheeler explained, “When we have really heavy weather, it’s crucial that aircraft are de-iced and then able to depart quickly.” He noted that strong de-icing fluids remain effective for only 15 to 20 minutes. If an aircraft sits for too long, it may require re-deicing, potentially causing delays. This process is why passengers may notice de-icing being performed more than once during their wait to take off.
The forecast suggests that mostly snow, rather than ice, will accumulate; however, packed snow can still lead to slippery runway conditions. Wheeler stated the airport uses grit and specialized brooms to address packed snow and, if necessary, applies chemical de-icers to keep pavement safe.
As of Friday afternoon, the airport has not reported any delays or cancellations, although Wheeler warned that this could change as the storm becomes more intense. Significant impacts are anticipated to start around midday Saturday. Airlines will continue to operate flights for as long as weather conditions allow.
Passengers are advised to stay informed about their flight status, utilizing airline applications and the airport’s website for updates. Even in the case of flight delays, Wheeler recommends arriving at least two hours early due to potential congestion at the airport. Flights from regions unaffected by the storm, such as Florida, are expected to operate normally, while travelers heading toward storm-impacted areas should remain vigilant.
Preparations by the airport staff reflect a commitment to minimizing disruption and ensuring passenger safety during challenging winter weather.