Advanced Pavement Testing Enables Targeted Runway Rehabilitation

Client

RS&H

Location

Austin, Texas

Challenge

As part of its pavement management program (PMP), Austin-Bergstrom International Airport required a comprehensive evaluation of its runways, taxiways, maintenance ramps, and general aviation apron to better understand pavement conditions and plan future maintenance.

During the assessment, concerns emerged regarding premature distress on Runway 17L/35R, particularly in the touchdown zones, earlier than anticipated. The airport needed a more detailed understanding of the pavement’s structural performance to determine whether full reconstruction was necessary or if targeted rehabilitation could address the issue.

At the same time, minimizing operational disruption and maximizing the value of testing efforts were critical considerations.

Solution

Transtec, A Terracon Company, implemented a data-driven approach using both traditional and advanced non-destructive testing (NDT) methods to evaluate pavement performance and structural integrity.

A combination of heavy falling weight deflectometer (HWD) testing and rolling dynamic deflectometer (RDD) technology was used to collect and analyze pavement deflection data. While HWD testing provided detailed measurements at discrete locations, the RDD enabled continuous, high-resolution data collection across pavement surfaces, allowing the team to pinpoint localized variations in support conditions more efficiently.

The continuous data collected by the RDD was processed and integrated into ArcGIS Pro, alongside aerial imagery, joint layouts, and historical repair data. This comprehensive analysis enabled Transtec to:

• Identify localized areas of higher deflection and potential weakness
• Evaluate structural capacity and remaining pavement life using FAA FAARFIELD software
• Differentiate between areas requiring rehabilitation and those performing as intended

Results

This approach provided a clearer, more detailed understanding of pavement conditions while reducing testing time and minimizing disruption to airport operations.

Transtec’s integrated testing and analysis approach provided critical insights that allowed the airport to make informed, cost-effective decisions. The evaluation confirmed that the majority of Runway 17L/35R was structurally sound, with only isolated areas requiring rehabilitation.

By leveraging continuous deflection data, the team was able to precisely define the limits of distressed pavement and recommend targeted repairs rather than full reconstruction. This approach:

• Eliminated the need for complete runway reconstruction
• Enabled targeted rehabilitation of localized distress areas
• Saved millions of dollars in potential reconstruction costs
• Provided high-resolution data to support ongoing pavement management and future planning

The data collected will continue to support ABIA’s pavement management program, helping the airport monitor performance trends, optimize maintenance strategies, and extend the life of its infrastructure.