NDAC Releases 2024 Statewide Airport Pavement Condition Study

NDAC Releases 2024 Statewide Airport Pavement Condition Study

Posted 5/20/25 (Tue)

The North Dakota Aeronautics Commission (NDAC), in collaboration with Mead & Hunt, Applied Pavement Technology, and Marr Arnold Planning, has released the results of the 2024 Statewide Pavement Condition Index (PCI) Study. Conducted every three years, the study provides a comprehensive evaluation of pavement conditions at 72 paved airports across North Dakota.

The PCI study is a vital tool for monitoring the condition of the state's airport infrastructure and for guiding strategic investment decisions. North Dakota's airport system currently includes 60.7 million square feet of pavement, with 35.2 million square feet at commercial service airports and 25.5 million square feet at general aviation airports.

"This report reflects the strong stewardship of our airport sponsors and the success of coordinated planning between local, state, and federal partners," said Kyle Wanner, Executive Director of the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission. "Preserving our airport infrastructure is essential to supporting economic development, emergency response, and statewide connectivity."

Key Highlights from the 2024 Study:

• System Performance is Holding Steady: The overall airport pavement network in North Dakota received a PCI rating of 77, identical to the rating from the 2021 study, indicating that the system is being well-maintained over time.
• Majority in Good or Excellent Condition: 43% of airport pavements were rated "excellent," while 23% were rated "good."
• Investment Needs Identified: Approximately $290 million in funding will be needed over the next five years to complete all identified pavement rehabilitation and reconstruction projects. This data will help prioritize resources to ensure cost-effective maintenance and repairs.

The NDAC uses PCI results to inform long-term planning, optimize available funding, and guide preservation strategies. This helps ensure that North Dakota's public-use airports continue to operate safely and efficiently-supporting statewide mobility and economic vitality.

The full 2024 PCI Statewide Executive Summary Report can be found HERE.

To explore detialed pavement condition data and individual airport information, please visit the Airport Pavement Mangement System online portal found HERE.