At many airfields, grass runways are an important part of the infrastructure. They are flexible, natural and gentle on the surroundings – but also vulnerable to weather, load and seasonal variations. With Terra-Grid E®35, we offer a solution that reinforces grass-based runways, enabling year-round use – without compromising drainage, vegetation or the natural appearance.
Extended season and increased operational reliability
Terra-Grid E®35 stabilises the sub-base and reduces the risk of mud, rutting and uneven surfaces – even during periods of rain and changing weather. This allows airfields to increase opening days and maintain safe operations for most of the year – including winter months when runways would otherwise be closed.
At the same time, the high load-bearing capacity enables operation at full Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW), including heavier aircraft. The firm, even surface reduces rolling resistance during take-off, potentially contributing to lower fuel consumption in the take-off phase.
Documented performance improvement
At airfields, CBR (California Bearing Ratio) and CBI (Clegg Bearing Index) are used to assess ground strength and stability. Low values indicate weak soil and limited load-bearing capacity.
Terra-Grid functions as a geogrid that locks the sub-base material in place and distributes aircraft wheel loads more effectively. In practice, the use of Terra-Grid can increase the effective CBR/CBI by two to three times, depending on soil conditions.
The result is stronger, more reliable runways and lower construction costs – even on subgrades with limited natural bearing capacity.
Texel Airport – green runway with high load capacity and rapid implementation
A recent example is Texel International Airport in the Netherlands, where changing weather patterns over several years created challenges for the grass-based main runway 21–03. Heavy rainfall – both in the late season and during summer cloudbursts – led to repeated (partial) closures and a decline in flight operations.
Despite a lava aggregate top layer installed in 2003, the bearing capacity was no longer sufficient to ensure stable operations under load. A long-term solution became necessary.
Several scenarios were analysed, including major reconstruction and asphalt paving. However, a traditional asphalt solution did not align with the airport’s long-term vision, where sustainability and environmental respect play a central role. The goal instead was to create a green runway with high load capacity and minimal environmental impact.
After thorough research, Texel International Airport selected Terra-Grid from DANREC. The solution is made from 100% recycled plastic and combines high load capacity with an open, permeable structure. After installation, the runway retains more than 50% grass coverage, preserving the soil’s natural ecosystem and supporting continued biological activity.
Terra-Grid provides stable grip and safe operation – even during heavy braking and wet conditions.
– Pilot
Installation began on 27 October and was carried out directly on top of the existing grass runway – without prior ground preparation. The panels were laid and clicked together, then gently rolled into the top layer to ensure stability and proper integration with the grass.
By 7 November, the work was completed. In total, 36,000 m² of Terra-Grid were installed in just ten working days, thanks to close cooperation between the contractor, airport users, volunteers and the Texel Airport team.
The result is a reliable runway capable of withstanding heavy rainfall, reducing closures and ensuring stable operations – without compromising landscape or sustainability ambitions.
Technical strength with respect for the surroundings
Terra-Grid E®35 has a documented load capacity of up to 160 t/m² and is designed to withstand frost, UV radiation and significant temperature fluctuations. Integrated expansion joints accommodate ground movement and ensure long-term stability.
The system is permeable and does not seal the surface. Water can infiltrate naturally, and grass continues to grow through the structure. The runway retains its natural appearance – without compromising drainage or soil structure.
Used for more than 25 years and manufactured from recycled plastic – Terra-Grid combines operational reliability with environmental responsibility.
– Journalist
Quality, certification and responsibility
When solutions are installed directly in nature and in safety-critical infrastructure, material choice and documentation are essential. Terra-Grid E®35 is made from recycled plastic and is RAL-GZ 806 certified.
The certification sets strict requirements for materials, environmental impact and physical performance. Products must not release ecotoxic substances into soil or water and are tested for strength, durability and resistance to weather and load.
For us, this is an important part of our ESG commitment: ensuring that solutions are not only technically effective, but also environmentally safe – in both the short and long term.
A solution that performs – in practice
Terra-Grid is currently used on more than 100 runways worldwide and demonstrates how functionality, operational reliability and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.
For airfields, this means fewer closures, stable operations and a solution that respects both the landscape and the demands of modern aviation.
