Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport said it has opened a $40 million runway extension that allows planes to carry more fuel to fly longer distances.
The 500-foot runway extension of Runway 27R had been under construction since January 2011 and opened July 16, the airport said.
Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed said in a written statement the runway extension strengthens Atlanta's position as an international gateway. The project was funded with Federal Aviation Administration grants and revenue from passenger facility charges paid on top of air fares.
Runway 27R is the airport's primary runway for emergency landings, and the extension also gives pilots a longer surface to land on during emergencies, according to the airport.
