AvTurf - Installations - The Leaders in Aviation Artificial / Synthetic Turf Installations at Airports World Wide





First Airfield Synthetic Grass Runway for General Aviation In August of 2004, the AvTurf team made aviation history with the first takeoff and landing on a synthetic grass runway at Calhan Airport. The Pilot, Mark Shook from Peyton, CO made the historic flight. Since the middle of August, the 56,000-square-foot artificial turf runway has experienced numerous General Aviation operations including gliders, tow planes, and helicopters. "It is the smoothest and most visible surface I ever used," remarked one pilot. Before installing the runway system, controlled lab testing was performed to ensure material integrity and strength. In addition to the lab testing, special aircraft were outfitted with electronic measuring equipment, which took readings on wheel friction, braking coefficients, airframe stress, and aircraft drag. This information is critical in regards to aircraft performance standards to ensure the highest degree of safety. To date the runway has endured numerous take off and landings from various types of general aviation aircraft and the artificial turf still performs like the day it was installed. Installation Location: Runway 17/35