How is snow removed from the runway at MSP? – WCCO

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MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – A massive blizzard is set to move into the Twin Cities, bringing up to 8 inches of buildup to the metro. Plows will start clearing city streets, but how do airports make sure their runways are clear?

Minneapolis-St. Paul’s International Airport release a video which explains the process on Friday.

In total, more than 150 snow and ice removal devices make up the fleet to ensure on-time departures, all coordinated by around 100 people from departments around the airport.

According to this video, depending on the time of day, the runway will be closed for about 15 minutes to clear the snow. A fleet of 15-23 vehicles – including plows, brooms, blowers, de-icing machines and sanders – all clear the snow and then a surface friction test vehicle follows in a row.

Formation of equipment for snow removal (Source: MSP Airport)

The vehicle traveled at 40 mph down the runway, while the fifth plane wheel was lowered to determine if the runway was safe to use.

According to the video, the airport’s electricians removed snow from all the lights on the runway by hand.

After a blizzard, crews can stay at the site for several days to continue clearing the snow. Some of the piles are moved off site to melt, while others are taken to one of four melting plants at the airport, which can melt up to 150 tons of snow an hour.

Electricians clean runway signs at MSP Airport (Source: MSP Airport)

Friday’s blizzard will affect southern parts of the state. Snow starts to fall around midday, and areas south of the metro could see more than 10 inches of snow.

It was the first major blizzard of the season. To stay on top of forecasts, click here.