More PBIA flight delays feared when main runway closes for 10 months

Delays at Palm Beach International Airport could worsen as officials move toward a 10-month rehabilitation of the airport’s main runway, beginning this fall. The Palm Beach County Department of Airports plans to rehabilitate the 10,000-foot primary commercial runway 10L with a $27 million project. Airport staff said the work will include overnight closures later this year and a full shutdown for six months in 2027. The first phase closes Runway 10L from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Monday to Friday from October 2026 through January 2027, followed by full-day closure from February through July 2027, with all aircraft using the 7,000-foot crosswind runway. Airport Director Laura Beebe said airlines were notified and officials do not expect added delays, although carriers may adjust schedules where operations cannot occur after 11 p.m. Weeknights. The project includes repaving, drainage improvements, and FAA-standard safety area grading, alongside electrical and lighting upgrades. Recent data cited by the Palm Beach Post reported a delay rate above 10% in 2025, the highest among major airports surveyed by AirAdvisor, with delays averaging over 140 minutes. CEO Anton Radchenko warned that previous runway closures have historically affected punctuality.