Runway surface temperatures at Toronto Pearson International Airport reached 55 °C during a severe heat wave in Toronto [1].
The extreme heat creates potential safety risks for ground crews and can impact aircraft performance, as high surface temperatures affect lift and braking.
Sean Davidson, a spokesperson for Toronto Pearson International Airport, confirmed the temperature spike. "The runways are heating up to 55 °C," Davidson said [1].
Airport officials have focused on the well-being of employees working outdoors. Staff members are being urged to take frequent breaks, and maintain hydration to avoid heat-related illnesses while managing operations on the tarmac.
Reports regarding the impact on flight schedules have been inconsistent. Some reports cited a maintenance issue on one runway as the cause of delays, while other accounts stated that airport operations continued to run smoothly despite the extreme heat [1].
The airport remains in a state of monitoring as the heat wave persists. Ground crews continue to operate under heightened health advisories to ensure safety during the temperature peak [1].
“"The runways are heating up to 55 °C."”
Extreme runway temperatures can lead to 'heat soak,' where the pavement radiates heat back into the air, potentially creating unstable conditions for departing aircraft. While the airport reports smooth operations, the need for mandatory hydration and breaks for ground staff indicates that these temperatures are approaching the threshold of occupational safety limits for outdoor labor.
