Comparing the Cost of Rigid and Flexible Aircraft Pavements Using a Parametric Whole of Life Cost Analysis

The construction and maintenance costs, as well the residual value, were calculated for structurally equivalent rigid flexible airfield pavements, a range of typical commercial aircraft, subgrade conditions. Whole life cost analysis was performed periods, from 40 years to 100 years. For standard 40-year period value based on pavement reconstruction, pavements had 40% 105% higher whole than although this comparison is limited compositions material rates adopted. However, longer periods significant impact relative cost, always pavements. assumed condition at end design most influential factor, with 60-year service resulting in having lower but assuming requirement expedient reconstruction resulted costing approximately 4–6 times over period.