Dalton Airport Begins First Runway Repaving in 35 Years

Dalton Municipal Airport is undergoing its first runway repaving in over 35 years, which will enhance its capacity to accommodate larger corporate jets, such as the Gulfstream 550 and 650, by increasing the runway's thickness by three inches. Airport Manager Andrew Wiersma emphasized that although the runway length will remain at 5,500 feet, the upgrade will allow for more substantial weight-bearing capabilities, benefiting fuel sales and service efficiency. Meanwhile, Etihad Airways plans to invest up to $1 billion to retrofit its Boeing 787 and 777 fleets, introducing high-speed internet and new entertainment systems, as well as ensuring consistency across its widebody jets. In addition, Singapore Airlines is set to embark on a multi-year project worth approximately $821 million to enhance its long-haul cabin products in 41 Airbus A350-900 aircraft, which will include the introduction of first-class seating on previously business-only models. The retrofitting of Singapore Airlines' aircraft aims to improve passenger comfort, with the first updates expected to be operational by 2026 and 2027 for various models. These upgrades reflect a broader trend in the aviation industry towards enhancing passenger experience and accommodating larger aircraft.