Insights

Airports are essential hubs of transportation and commerce, but their expansive impervious surfaces—runways, taxiways, terminal buildings, and parking lots—create significant environmental challenges. One of the most critical airport design considerations is stormwater, which, if not properly managed, can degrade water quality, increase flooding risks, and disrupt local ecosystems.

Unlike natural landscapes that absorb rainfall and allow it to infiltrate into the ground slowly, airports shed stormwater rapidly. This runoff can carry pollutants such as fuel, de-icing chemicals, oil, and heavy metals into nearby waterways. Without effective stormwater management, airports can contribute to environmental degradation, harming aquatic life and reducing water quality for surrounding communities.

Managing stormwater is not a new challenge. Regulations have existed since the establishment of the Clean Water Act in 1972 and continue to evolve, incorporating creative ways of mimicking the pre-developed site condition with natural approaches. By prioritizing sustainable stormwater solutions, airports can mitigate impacts of stormwater runoff while maintaining operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.

Mimicking the Natural State of the Site: Sustainable Stormwater Strategies

The key to sustainable stormwater management is designing systems that replicate the site’s natural state as much as possible. This means allowing water to infiltrate the ground, slowing runoff, and filtering out pollutants before they reach natural water bodies. Some of the most effective strategies include:

Preserving Natural Drainage Systems – Protecting riparian buffers and vegetated areas along streams and wetlands helps filter pollutants and slow down stormwater. These natural barriers reduce erosion and enhance water quality. While airports are highly developed environments, they can still integrate protected green spaces where feasible.

Implementing Low-Impact Development (LID) Techniques – LID practices manage stormwater at its source, reducing the need for large, centralized drainage systems. Airports can incorporate techniques such as:

• Bioretention Basins – These vegetated depressions capture and filter stormwater, removing pollutants and allowing water to infiltrate.
• Permeable Pavement – Used in parking lots or low-traffic areas, these surfaces allow water to seep through rather than running off.
• Green Roofs – Installed on terminal buildings or other structures, green roofs absorb rainwater, reduce runoff, and provide insulation benefits.
• Rainwater Harvesting – Collecting and reusing stormwater for irrigation or other non-potable uses reduces demand on municipal water supplies.

Balancing Sustainability and Wildlife Management

One of the challenges in designing sustainable stormwater solutions at airports is mitigating wildlife hazards. The FAA Advisory Circular 150/5200-33C provides guidance on reducing wildlife attractants near airfields, as birds and other animals can pose serious safety risks. Many sustainable stormwater features, such as retention ponds and vegetated basins, can unintentionally attract wildlife. To address this, airports can:

• Select Wildlife-Deterring Vegetation – Choosing plant species that do not produce seeds or fruit reduces food sources for birds and small animals.
• Minimize Standing Water – While stormwater retention is beneficial, open water should be limited to prevent waterfowl from nesting.
• Maintain Optimal Grass Heights – Keeping grass between 5 and 12 inches discourages bird activity while still supporting infiltration.

By carefully designing stormwater controls with these principles, airports can enhance sustainability without compromising safety.

Long-Term Environmental Benefits of Sustainable Stormwater Practices

Implementing sustainable stormwater solutions at airports provides lasting environmental benefits, including:

• Improved Water Quality – Stormwater controls reduce pollutants before they reach natural waterways, protecting aquatic life and drinking water sources.
• Reduced Flooding – Thoughtful stormwater management slows runoff, preventing downstream flooding and erosion.
• Enhanced Groundwater Recharge – Airports may have limited pervious surfaces, but they can contribute to groundwater replenishment by optimizing grassy infields and incorporating infiltration techniques.
• Support for Local Ecosystems – While wildlife hazards must be managed, strategically placed green infrastructure—such as rain gardens or wetlands in non-critical areas—can enhance biodiversity and provide habitat for beneficial species.

As environmental regulations evolve and climate resilience becomes a priority, sustainable stormwater management is essential for airports. Airports can reduce their environmental footprint by integrating green infrastructure, preserving natural drainage, and balancing sustainability with operational needs while improving water quality and flood resilience.

Sustainable stormwater practices are not just a regulatory necessity; they are an investment in the future, ensuring that airports operate harmoniously with the environment while maintaining safety and efficiency. With thoughtful design and long-term planning, airports can play a leading role in protecting natural resources and fostering a more sustainable aviation industry.