KBOS Runways

[djmwx2]

I know that in NW winds Boston needs to use 33L/27 but how do they decide which they are going to use for arrivals/departures.  Like today they are using 33L for departures and 27/32 for arrivals.  Does it depend on the use of runway 32 or the actual heading of the wind (since it is at 320 today)?

[fkatc1402]

It depends on the ability to use RY32 and the arrival demand for two landing runways.  Very few A/C will accept RY33r(Cape air and similar type A/C only). Also if one configuration has been in use for awhile we switch to spread the noise out.

[oreotsi]

does anyone ever land on RWY14?

[djmwx2]

thanks for the information.  I had a feeling it had something to do with arrivals.  I was surprised yesterday that they were on 4R/4L/9 with strong NW winds but 33L was closed from NOTAM.

As for 14, I think it is only for departures from looking at airnav's information.  Their page says "APPROACHES TO RWY 14 NOT AUTHORIZED."  It also says "RY14/32 UNIDIRECTIONAL; NO LNDGS RY 14; NO TAKEOFFS RY 32"

[fkatc1402]

There is a hotel at the approach end of 14 so they don't allow arrivals or departures off 32.  Additionally its the only runway in the country that requires very specific wind conditions in order to use.

[Jason]

I know that in NW winds Boston needs to use 33L/27 but how do they decide which they are going to use for arrivals/departures.  Like today they are using 33L for departures and 27/32 for arrivals.  Does it depend on the use of runway 32 or the actual heading of the wind (since it is at 320 today)?

The runway configurations are largely documented and used by direction of the facility SOP.  33L/27 is a common configuration with arrivals on 33L and departures staggered on both depending on departure gate, but more concentrated on 27.  The 4's configuration is preferable in low weather due to cat II and III capabilities (4R) and also allows the highest arrival rate in VMC (2500/5) or better, which is obviously quite often preferred.

The Boston local controllers have a more indepth perspective and first hand knowledge than my brief description I'm sure, but I hope this helps.