Take a look: http://maps.google.com/maps?q=LGB&ie=UTF8&z=17&ll=34.213239,-119.079899&spn=0.005598,0.010407&t=k&om=1
2006-11-19 06:21:00 · 4 answers · asked by presidentrichardnixon 3 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Aircraft
Why wouldn't a displaced threshold be used instead?
2006-11-19 11:15:06 · update #1
most larger civilian airports were designed to be used by the military in the event of war. So allot of the strip might not be needed by smaller civilian aircraft.
2006-11-19 08:29:21 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
The runway has been truncated from the east end, as the map shows.
OK, it was established as an auxiliary landing field with a 5,000 foot runway in 1942. Over the years it was extended to 9,000 feet and ended up being a Voodoo base.
When it was demilled it was on condition that it would only be used as a 6,000 foot general aviation airfield. So there's 3,000 feet of perfectly good runway under that blast pad.
2006-11-19 15:34:41 · answer #2 · answered by Chris H 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The Blastpads act as extra runway in the event of an emergency. They also help to minimize noise and heat from jets. Another thing is if you look closly at the right on the edge of the blastpad you can see what appears to be a P-3. This is a Millitary aircraft used by the Navy and it isn't quiet by any means. BUT A BLASTPAD CANNOT BE USED BY AN AIRCRAFT IF IT ISN"T IN AN EMERGENCY.
2006-11-20 00:36:43 · answer #3 · answered by Charles 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The runway was shortened a few years ago in order to keep aircraft flying higher above noise sensitive areas close to the airport.
2006-11-19 19:01:55 · answer #4 · answered by Jason 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋