Key Takeaways
• Spokane Airport’s primary runway 3-21 closes June 9-11, 2025, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily for maintenance.
• All flights move to the secondary runway with no expected delays, cancellations, or changes to schedules.
• South Hill residents may experience temporary noise increase during closure hours; normal operations resume after 4 p.m.
Spokane International Airport’s Primary Runway Closure: What Travelers, Residents, and Airlines Need to Know
Spokane International Airport’s primary runway, known as Runway 3-21, will be closed for scheduled maintenance from Monday, June 9 through Wednesday, June 11, 2025. Each day, the closure will last from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. During these hours, all flight operations—including both passenger and cargo flights—will move to the airport’s secondary, east-west oriented runway. This temporary change is part of the airport’s routine efforts to keep its facilities safe and up to date with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) standards.
This article explains what this closure means for travelers, airlines, local residents, and the broader Spokane community. It also provides background on why such maintenance is necessary, what steps are being taken to minimize disruption, and what to expect in the future as Spokane International Airport continues to grow.
Why Is Spokane International Airport Closing Its Primary Runway?
The main reason for closing the primary runway is to carry out routine maintenance. Airports must regularly inspect, repair, and upgrade their runways to meet strict safety and operational rules set by the FAA. These rules help make sure that all flights—whether carrying people or cargo—can take off and land safely.
According to Spokane International Airport officials, this maintenance is not due to any emergency or unexpected problem. Instead, it is part of a planned schedule to keep the airport running smoothly and safely. The airport’s management has stressed that such closures are normal and happen at airports across the United States 🇺🇸 to maintain compliance with federal regulations.
When and How Will the Runway Closure Happen?
- Dates: Monday, June 9 to Wednesday, June 11, 2025
- Times: Each day from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Affected Runway: Primary runway 3-21
- Alternative: All flights will use the secondary, east-west runway during these hours
The closure is carefully timed to minimize disruption. By scheduling the work during daytime hours, the airport can complete maintenance tasks efficiently while still allowing flights to operate on the secondary runway. After 4 p.m. each day, the primary runway will reopen for normal use.
What Does This Mean for Passengers?
No Changes to Flight Schedules or Boarding Procedures
Travelers using Spokane International Airport during the closure should not expect any changes to their flight schedules or boarding processes. The airport has made it clear that all commercial flights will continue as planned. Passengers should arrive at the airport as usual and check with their airlines for any last-minute updates, though none are expected.
What Might Be Different?
- Flight Paths: Passengers may notice that planes are taking off and landing from a different direction than usual, as all flights will use the secondary runway.
- Noise: Some travelers may hear more noise in certain parts of the airport or while on the plane, especially during takeoff and landing.
What Should Passengers Do?
- Arrive as Usual: There is no need to change your travel plans or arrive earlier than normal.
- Check for Updates: While no delays or cancellations are expected, it’s always a good idea to check your flight status before heading to the airport.
- Follow Signs and Staff Instructions: If there are any changes to gate assignments or boarding procedures, airport staff will provide clear instructions.
How Will Airlines and Cargo Operators Be Affected?
All Operations Move to the Secondary Runway
During the closure, all airlines and cargo carriers will use the secondary runway for arrivals and departures. Spokane International Airport is served by eight major airlines and three cargo carriers, and the airport’s planning ensures that the secondary runway can handle this volume of traffic.
No Expected Delays or Cancellations
Airport officials have stated that the closure will not cause delays or cancellations. The airport’s capacity planning and infrastructure allow for smooth operations even when one runway is closed. Airlines have been informed in advance and are coordinating with airport operations to ensure a seamless transition.
What Should Airlines Do?
- Coordinate with Airport Operations: Airlines should follow standard procedures for using the secondary runway and stay in contact with airport staff for any updates.
- Inform Passengers: Airlines should keep passengers informed, though no major changes are expected.
What About Local Residents, Especially in South Hill?
Temporary Increase in Aircraft Noise
One of the main effects of the runway closure will be a temporary increase in aircraft noise over certain neighborhoods, especially South Hill. Because all flights will use the secondary runway, planes will take off and land over different areas than usual. Residents in South Hill have been notified about this change and are advised that the increase in noise will only last during the closure hours.
No Action Required for Residents
Residents do not need to take any special action. The airport has communicated the temporary nature of the change and has provided information to help people understand why the closure is necessary.
What Should Residents Expect?
- More Aircraft Overhead: Expect to see and hear more planes during the closure hours.
- Return to Normal After Closure: Once the primary runway reopens each day at 4 p.m., flight paths and noise levels will return to normal.
Why Is Routine Runway Maintenance Important?
Safety and Compliance
Runway maintenance is essential for keeping airports safe and in line with FAA rules. The FAA sets strict standards for runway surfaces, lighting, markings, and other features. Regular maintenance helps prevent accidents, reduces wear and tear, and ensures that the airport can handle all types of aircraft safely.
Long-Term Benefits
By closing the primary runway for short periods to perform maintenance, Spokane International Airport can avoid bigger problems in the future. Well-maintained runways mean fewer unexpected repairs, fewer delays, and a safer experience for everyone.
FAA Requirements
The FAA requires airports to carry out regular inspections and maintenance. If an airport does not meet these requirements, it could lose its certification or face restrictions on its operations. You can learn more about these rules on the FAA’s official website.
How Has Spokane International Airport Prepared for the Closure?
Advance Planning and Communication
The airport has a detailed plan for handling the closure. This includes:
- Notifying Airlines and Cargo Carriers: All operators have been informed well in advance.
- Informing the Public: The airport has used its website, social media, and local news to share information about the closure.
- Coordinating with the FAA: All maintenance work is scheduled in line with FAA guidelines.
Capacity Planning
According to the Spokane International Airport Master Plan, the airport’s infrastructure is designed to handle periods when one runway is closed. The secondary runway is fully equipped to manage all arrivals and departures during the closure window.
Past Experience
This is not the first time Spokane International Airport has closed its primary runway for maintenance. Similar closures have happened in previous years, usually with little or no disruption to flights or passenger services. The airport’s experience with these situations helps ensure that everything runs smoothly.
What Do the Numbers Say? Spokane International Airport by the Stats
- Passenger Volume: In 2024, the airport served over 4.2 million passengers—a record year.
- Cargo Handled: More than 67,000 tons of cargo moved through the airport in 2024.
- Airlines: Eight major airlines and three cargo carriers operate at Spokane International Airport.
- Runway Usage: During the closure, all this activity will shift to the secondary runway, showing the airport’s strong capacity and planning.
What Are the Broader Implications for Stakeholders?
For Travelers
- Peace of Mind: No need to worry about missed flights or changes to travel plans.
- Awareness: Be aware of possible changes in flight paths and noise, but expect normal operations.
For Airlines and Cargo Operators
- Smooth Operations: The airport’s planning means no expected delays or disruptions.
- Coordination: Airlines should stay in touch with airport staff but can expect business as usual.
For Local Residents
- Temporary Noise: Some neighborhoods, especially South Hill, will notice more aircraft noise during the closure hours.
- Communication: The airport has kept residents informed and explained the reasons for the change.
For the Community
- Continued Growth: The airport’s ability to handle maintenance without disruption supports its ongoing growth and success.
- Safety First: Regular maintenance keeps the airport safe for everyone.
What Should You Do If You’re Traveling During the Closure?
Here’s a simple checklist for passengers:
- Check Your Flight Status: Use your airline’s website or app to confirm your flight details.
- Arrive at the Airport as Usual: No need to change your normal routine.
- Listen for Announcements: If there are any changes, airport staff will let you know.
- Be Patient: If you notice any small changes in boarding or flight paths, remember that these are temporary and for safety.
What’s Next for Spokane International Airport?
No Long-Term Disruptions
The closure is temporary and part of regular maintenance. Once the work is done, the primary runway will reopen, and all operations will return to normal.
Continued Investment in Infrastructure
With record passenger and cargo numbers in 2024, Spokane International Airport is expected to keep investing in its facilities. This includes more maintenance, upgrades, and possibly new projects to handle even more travelers and shipments in the future.
Ongoing Communication
The airport will continue to keep travelers, airlines, and the community informed about any future changes or maintenance work.
Multiple Perspectives: What Are People Saying?
Airport Management
Airport officials have stressed that safety and compliance come first. They have worked hard to make sure the closure causes as little disruption as possible. As reported by VisaVerge.com, airport management has assured the public that all flights will continue as scheduled and that the closure is a normal part of keeping the airport safe and efficient.
FAA
The FAA supports the maintenance work as part of its mission to keep airports across the United States 🇺🇸 safe and reliable.
Community
Some residents, especially in South Hill, have expressed concern about increased noise. However, most understand that the change is temporary and necessary for safety.
Airlines
No major airlines have raised concerns about the closure. They are working with the airport to ensure smooth operations.
Where Can You Get More Information?
- Spokane International Airport Official Website: For the latest updates, visit the Spokane International Airport website.
- FAA Runway Safety: For more on runway safety and maintenance rules, see the FAA’s official runway safety page.
- Contact Information: The airport’s information desk and contact forms are available on its website for any questions.
Conclusion: What Should You Remember?
Spokane International Airport’s primary runway will be closed from June 9 to June 11, 2025, each day from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. All flights will use the secondary runway during these hours. There will be no changes to flight schedules or boarding procedures, and no expected delays or cancellations. Residents in South Hill may notice more aircraft noise during the closure, but this is temporary. The closure is part of routine maintenance to keep the airport safe and in line with FAA rules.
If you’re traveling during this time, simply check your flight status and arrive at the airport as usual. Airlines and cargo operators can expect normal operations, and local residents can look forward to a quick return to normal noise levels after the closure.
By planning ahead and keeping everyone informed, Spokane International Airport shows its commitment to safety, efficiency, and community care. Regular maintenance like this helps the airport continue to grow and serve the Spokane region for years to come.
Learn Today
Primary Runway → The main runway used for takeoffs and landings at Spokane International Airport, designated 3-21.
FAA → Federal Aviation Administration, U.S. government agency regulating civil aviation safety and airport operations.
Secondary Runway → An alternative runway at the airport used temporarily during maintenance or closures of the primary runway.
Runway Maintenance → Scheduled inspections and repairs to keep runways safe, compliant, and operational according to FAA rules.
Flight Operations → All activities related to departures and arrivals of passenger and cargo flights at the airport.
This Article in a Nutshell
From June 9-11, 2025, Spokane Airport’s primary runway closes daily between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Flights shift to the secondary runway with no schedule changes. Residents near South Hill may hear increased noise, but all disruptions are temporary and part of routine safety maintenance to meet FAA standards.
— By VisaVerge.com
