JFK second airport in region to receive Radiant Energy's system, Newark got it in 1999

Radiant Energy has announced that beginning this winter, airlines at John F. Kennedy International Airport will be able to deice aircraft as large as a B747-300 at a new facility installed by Radiant Energy that will use infrared energy to melt and evaporate ice and snow, under a project approved by the Port Authority Board of Commissioners.
 
"This is a result of the hard work and cooperation of our dedicated employees and people at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and the John F. Kennedy International Airport," said Colin Digout, President of Radiant Energy. "This will be a great opportunity to showcase our deicing facility to the many premier global airlines that serve JFK. We look forward to working with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey on this project."

Radiant's InfraTek system is the only infrared radiant system approved by the Federal Aviation Administration for deicing commercial aircraft. It was installed at Newark Liberty International Airport for Continental Airlines and first used during the winter of 1999-2000.

"Airport operators and airlines must run a coordinated, cooperative operation during wintry weather to avoid inconveniencing travelers," Port Authority Chairman Anthony R. Coscia said. "The Port Authority uses the latest snow-clearing equipment to keep runways free and clear, while airlines work continuously to clean ice and snow from their aircraft. The new deicing facility, similar to one that has proved successful at Newark Liberty International Airport, will help make winter operations at JFK even more efficient, further reducing the possibility of weather-related delays and cancellations."

Port Authority Vice Chairman Charles A. Gargano said, "With about 86 million annual passengers, this region is the world's greatest origin-and-destination market. To maintain our competitiveness, we must ensure our airports house the best and latest technologies, such as infrared radiant deicing, and we remain committed to providing cutting-edge amenities that will make our customers' experience safe, secure and pleasant."

Port Authority Executive Director Joseph J. Seymour said, "Few people think about snow in June, but we will reap the benefits in January. This facility will enable carriers at JFK to improve their on-time performance for departures and minimize cancellations while strengthening the airport's position as a premier global gateway."

Radiant is expected to begin construction in July and the project will be complete in time for winter. The facility, which is being built and will be operated by Radiant Aviation Services, has an estimated cost of $9.5 million. About two-thirds of the cost is being paid for with an FAA grant, and several airlines already have indicated their intention to use the facility, which will cover remaining construction and operation costs.

FMI: www.radiantenergycorp.com