The Roadgrip Airports team has been hard at work in West Africa, completing rubber removal works at two major airports in the region. Using ultra-high pressure (UHP) water jetting, our crew removed more than 10,000 m² of rubber from the runway touchdown zones as part of routine maintenance to improve surface performance and safety.
Runway rubber removal is one of the most important parts of an airport’s ongoing maintenance programme. Each time an aircraft lands, its tyres make contact with the runway at high speed and high temperature, often exceeding 200°C. The heat, combined with the immense friction of touchdown, causes small amounts of rubber to shear from the tyres and bond tightly to the surface. Over time, this rubber build-up can significantly change the texture of the runway, making it smoother and less able to disperse water effectively.
If left untreated, rubber deposits can increase the risk of hydroplaning, where aircraft tyres lose contact with the surface due to a thin film of water. This can reduce braking efficiency and directional control during landing, especially in wet conditions. Regular removal ensures that the runway surface retains its designed friction levels, allowing aircraft to land and decelerate safely in all weather.
Our ultra-high pressure water jetting machines use jets operating at pressures of up to 40,000 psi to remove rubber without damaging the underlying pavement. This environmentally friendly method relies purely on water – no harsh chemicals – and leaves the surface clean, roughened, and ready for operation.
Because our fleet of UHP machines is based at Roadgrip Africa HQ, we’re able to mobilise quickly across the region, providing airports with specialist runway maintenance support whenever needed. From small domestic airfields to major international hubs, our proximity and experience mean less downtime, faster turnaround, and consistently high standards of safety and performance.
At Roadgrip Airports, we understand that every safe landing begins with a reliable surface. Through ongoing maintenance and expertise in airfield operations, we’re proud to help keep Africa’s airports safe and efficient.