Taxiway Alpha Resurfacing

Bethell resurfaced a section of Taxiway Alpha at East Midlands Airport (EMA) during pre-planned closures of the Taxiway over three consecutive weekends.

For the resurfacing of Taxiway Alpha at EMA, we assembled a dedicated site team with clearly defined responsibilities and coordinated support from our long-term trusted supply chain partners. The team was mobilised specifically for the planned weekend closures, ensuring continuity across three consecutive night shifts. All staff were inducted in advance, plant and vehicles were registered with security, and our Project Manager oversaw mobilisation through the designated muster point. This structured approach allowed seamless site access and ensured every operative was aligned with programme objectives from the outset.

The resurfacing of Taxiway Alpha is an example of a tightly controlled design and build project in a critical aviation environment. The scope included accurate enablement works such as daylight surveys and recording of Airfield Ground Lighting (AGL) positions, followed by resurfacing, reinstatement of AGL units, and handover within strict operational windows and a highly regulated environment. The project required both engineering precision (as-built surveys, 5m grid setting out, accurate coring for new AGLs) and operational adaptability to manage multiple trades in a compressed timeframe. The integration of surfacing works, AGL installation, and quality testing demonstrates Bethell’s ability to deliver complex, multi-disciplinary solutions.

The work phase was meticulously planned to align with the five-hour closure window between midnight and 05:00. Activities included:

The project was managed under a single point of responsibility through our Project Manager, who liaised directly with MAG and coordinated specialist contractor activity. This ensured the client was fully informed, risks were actively managed, and programme commitments were met without compromise.

Each shift concluded with full reinstatement of surface markings, AGL fittings, energisation testing, surface testing, and a final FOD sweep. Plant and operatives were escorted off-site in controlled convoys. No significant defects were recorded, and the works were handed back to MAG on programme without any delays to morning flights.

The success of the works relied on collaboration between our team, MAG, and the wider supply chain. MAG’s coordination of access, plant escorts, and airfield security was matched by our disciplined programming and transparent and collaborative reporting. The project demonstrated how early engagement, clear communication, and a shared focus on outcomes underpin strong client-contractor relationships.

Bethell took ownership of induction, site controls, and compliance with MAG’s safety protocols, demonstrating strong leadership in delivering works without incident. Bethell fulfilled both delivery and integration with the wider project. We worked with the designer to ensure AGL reinstatement was designed to the correct tolerances, approving surfacing methodologies, and verifying the reinstatement of centreline markings. Our role reinforced continuity from design intent through to construction delivery, providing EMA with assurance that both regulatory and operational requirements were fully met.