Chicago Midway Abruptly Shuts Runway For A Month After Jet Blast Damage

Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) has closed Runway 22L for about a month after jet blast damage threatened runway safety systems. The airport, on the city’s southwest side and a base for Frontier Airlines and Southwest Airlines, shut the runway to repair the Engineered Materials Arresting System (EMAS). Southwest operates more than 90% of flights there, raising the odds of knock-on effects. The Chicago Department of Aviation said it is coordinating with the Federal Aviation Administration and airline partners to limit disruption, including possible cancellations and extended delays. Travelers are urged to check flight status and speak with airlines. Repairs are scheduled to be completed by mid-November.