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.