Building your own runway is complex work and usually takes more time and space than what is available in wikiHow articles, so this article will be limited to the basics only, while you will have several links for more information.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Site Selection
Step 1. Consider the following factors:
- Flatness and / or the amount of work required for the area to be leveled.
- The prevailing and / or seasonal wind direction.
- The drainage of the area. It should have a small slope (2% of degrees maximum).
- The cost of construction.
- Access roads to buildings and roads.
- Know the different local, state and national regulations that govern the guidelines for having an airstrip.
- Material needed for strong winds if these winds are common in your area.
- Safety box and barriers.
Method 2 of 4: Soil
Step 1. Stability in bad weather
Note: The suitability of the soil for grass to grow is often related to the suitability of the soil for making a runway. If the earth has too much clay, when it rains - for example - the terrain will be a disaster
Method 3 of 4: Minimum Dimensions
Step 1.
- 75 feet wide in open grassy areas.
- 200 meters wide in wooded areas.
- 3200 feet in length.
- Note: You should take the temperature and the altitude in the hottest time of the year in order to avoid that the engine power decreases under these conditions. Remember to check the weather information for your area.
Method 4 of 4: Preparing for Construction
Step 1. As a first measure you must clean the entire area
Step 2. Completely remove roots from trees and shrubs
Step 3. Fill in uneven areas so that the entire terrain is completely level
Step 4. Remove any raised ground surfaces, as well as ditches
Step 5. Identify and fill in the soil before any animal burrows
Step 6. Remove any obstructions at the ends of the track
Similarly, power lines, trees, etc. they must be removed or, if necessary, be illuminated.
Step 7. Graduate the track 6 more inches in the center to improve drainage
You should stabilize the land by sowing grass if necessary.
Step 8. Mark the boundaries of the runway in such a way that it is visible from the air
Step 9. Install a wind cone or tetrahedron so that you can mark a circular area around it to draw the track's attention from the air
Step 10. Finally, create a mooring area outside of the runway
Advice
* If you intend to create, modify or remove an airstrip, you have the obligation to previously inform the Federal Aviation Administration or the body in charge in your country. This notice must be made by submitting the FAA 7480-1 form if you are in the United States.