Local company set to make runway improvements aimed at preventing a “Miracle on the Hudson” situation

Today Congresswoman Chellie Pingree announced that a project at Portland International Jetport will improve runway safety while creating work for the local economy.
 
“The ‘Miracle on the Hudson’ was an inspiring story in the end, but we don’t need a repeat in Portland,” said Pingree.  “Thankfully this project lessens the risks posed by bird strikes while creating work for a local company and employer.”
 
The Jetport is planning to fill a depression near one of its runways that often fills with water and attracts waterfowl.  A bird strike was attributed as the cause of a 2009 accident at LaGuardia Airport in New York City.  The pilot successfully made a water landing on the Hudson River after striking a flock of geese shortly after takeoff.
 
Shaw Brothers of Gorham was awarded the contract for the project and will do the work this summer.  The company will also move a maintenance road to extend the runway’s safety area, providing a larger cushion to pilots who overrun or undershoot the runway.  All together the contract will bring $2.7 million in work to the area.