Airfield Drainage and Stormwater Design

Proper drainage is essential to the performance and safety of every airfield. Managing stormwater isn’t just about protecting infrastructure—it’s about safeguarding pilots, passengers, and operations.

McClure’s engineers design drainage systems that keep runways dry and reliable, using FAA guidance (including AC 150/5320-5D) to support safe operations in a wide range of weather, while also considering wildlife-attractant risks. We understand the complexities of airfield stormwater and how to build long-term solutions that work.

Why Stormwater Management Matters

Airfields are expansive, impervious surfaces exposed to intense rainfall and runoff. Without proper drainage, water can pool on runways and taxiways—posing risks such as:

• Hydroplaning and reduced braking performance
• Icy conditions in cold weather
• Pavement deterioration and costly maintenance
• Disruptions to airport operations

Effective drainage not only prevents these hazards but also protects long-term infrastructure investments and ensures compliance with FAA safety standards.

Engineering Airfield Drainage Systems

McClure approaches drainage design with a focus on efficiency, durability, long-term performance, and site-specific conditions. Our systems combine surface and subsurface drainage strategies to move water off airfield pavement and away from structural areas. We also incorporate sustainable stormwater principles that support regulatory compliance, water quality, and long-term operational resilience.

Surface Drainage

Through coordinated grading and sloped pavement design, surface drainage systems efficiently direct stormwater away from airfield pavements and into controlled collection infrastructure.

Subsurface Drainage

A network of underdrains ( perforated piping) collects infiltrated water below the surface, protecting pavement structure and maintaining airfield stability.

Tailored Design for Every Site

We account for local rainfall, soil conditions, and topography to create custom drainage solutions that align with FAA regulations and existing airfield infrastructure.

McClure’s Role in Stormwater Solutions

Our engineers guide the entire lifecycle of drainage projects. From upfront hydrologic modeling and FAA coordination to construction oversight and long-term maintenance planning. We focus on delivering systems that are constructible, durable, and built to perform over time.

Whether designing for a new runway or upgrading aging infrastructure, we bring technical precision and practical experience to every project.

Building Resilience for the Future

As weather patterns intensify and airports continue to expand, drainage systems must be designed for adaptability and long-term reliability. Our approach addresses heavy rainfall events, regulatory compliance, and future development considerations—helping airports remain safe, operational, and prepared for growth.

Let’s Get to Work

McClure delivers the stormwater engineering expertise that airports rely on to stay safe and efficient. Ready to plan your next airfield improvement project? Contact us today to get started.

Airfield Drainage and Stormwater Design 

Proper drainage is essential to the performance and safety of every airfield. Managing stormwater isn’t just about protecting infrastructure—it’s about safeguarding pilots, passengers, and operations.

McClure’s engineers design drainage systems that keep runways dry and reliable, using FAA guidance (including AC 150/5320-5D) to support safe operations in a wide range of weather, while also considering wildlife-attractant risks. We understand the complexities of airfield stormwater and how to build long-term solutions that work.

Why Stormwater Management Matters

Airfields are expansive, impervious surfaces exposed to intense rainfall and runoff. Without proper drainage, water can pool on runways and taxiways—posing risks such as:

• Hydroplaning and reduced braking performance
• Icy conditions in cold weather
• Pavement deterioration and costly maintenance
• Disruptions to airport operations

Effective drainage not only prevents these hazards but also protects long-term infrastructure investments and ensures compliance with FAA safety standards.

Engineering Airfield Drainage Systems

McClure approaches drainage design with a focus on efficiency, durability, long-term performance, and site-specific conditions. Our systems combine surface and subsurface drainage strategies to move water off airfield pavement and away from structural areas. We also incorporate sustainable stormwater principles that support regulatory compliance, water quality, and long-term operational resilience.

Surface Drainage

Through coordinated grading and sloped pavement design, surface drainage systems efficiently direct stormwater away from airfield pavements and into controlled collection infrastructure.

Subsurface Drainage

A network of underdrains ( perforated piping) collects infiltrated water below the surface, protecting pavement structure and maintaining airfield stability.

Tailored Design for Every Site

We account for local rainfall, soil conditions, and topography to create custom drainage solutions that align with FAA regulations and existing airfield infrastructure.

McClure’s Role in Stormwater Solutions

Our engineers guide the entire lifecycle of drainage projects. From upfront hydrologic modeling and FAA coordination to construction oversight and long-term maintenance planning. We focus on delivering systems that are constructible, durable, and built to perform over time.

Whether designing for a new runway or upgrading aging infrastructure, we bring technical precision and practical experience to every project.

Building Resilience for the Future

As weather patterns intensify and airports continue to expand, drainage systems must be designed for adaptability and long-term reliability. Our approach addresses heavy rainfall events, regulatory compliance, and future development considerations—helping airports remain safe, operational, and prepared for growth.

WHERE WE MAKE AN IMPACT