Due to recording-breaking levels of rain in September, the nighttime runway closures at Southwest Florida International Airport will continue beyond Oct. 31, so that the related construction work can be completed.

The project will connect the airport's runway to a new taxiway at the Midfield Terminal and, based on input from the contractor, should be complete within approximately 30 to 45 days.

The closures, which begin at 12:25 a.m. and end at 5:40 a.m., are expected to have no impact on the traveling public - unless late evening flights are delayed beyond their scheduled arrival times. While this project is in process, those planning to meet late-evening flights are encouraged to confirm arrival times with the airlines and ask how the airline is handling the flight if it has been delayed.

Federal Aviation Administration regulations prohibit this type of work near an active runway, necessitating the nightly shutdowns. The nightly shutdowns ensure the safety of the construction crews as well as the arriving flights. Like the original closure plans, this extension has been coordinated with all airlines serving SWFIA.