Construction Irregularities Found in Domodedovo Airport’s Second Runway

Photo by © Aviation of Russia

Domodedovo Airport’s second runway (RWY‑2), originally scheduled to open eight years ago, was built in violation of construction standards and may require reconstruction, according to Mikhail Vasilenko, CEO of Sheremetyevo International Airport JSC.

Following a recent inspection, an expert commission will be formed to determine the scope of corrective works and possible reconstruction, potentially involving additional investment. The Federal Air Transport Agency of Russia (Rosaviatsiya) documented multiple violations of construction regulations.

The reported deficiencies include inadequate quality control by the previous owner and partial contractor-related issues, resulting in fragmented execution of the project. The commission will assess whether the pavement, supporting layers, drainage system, and airfield utilities require reconstruction, ensuring compliance with ICAO standards and national building codes.

Construction of RWY‑2 began in 2014 and was initially planned for completion by the 2018 FIFA World Cup. The project included associated airfield infrastructure, such as aprons and utilities, but these elements remain unfinished.

The main contractor, SU‑1, went bankrupt, causing work stoppages. Between 2021 and 2025, Centrodorstroy JSC carried out reconstruction on selected sections under government contracts; some contracts were terminated, and the company filed claims exceeding RUB 1 billion against state clients.

Currently, only one runway, adjacent to Terminal T1, is operational. RWY‑2 remains inactive, positioned parallel and northeast of the primary runway (14R/32L). Both runways are oriented approximately 140°/320°. The new runway is parallel to the existing RWY‑2, with a centerline separation of 290 meters. Once construction is complete, the old RWY‑2 will be repurposed as a taxiway.

In early February 2026, Domodedovo Airport was acquired by Perspectiva LLC, a subsidiary of Mash JSC, for RUB 66.13 billion. In 2025, passenger traffic declined 11% compared to 2024. The new owner plans to overhaul management and financial structures, enabling a comprehensive modernization of the airfield infrastructure.

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