ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT. Small element pavers were first used as an airfield pavement surfacing at Luton airport in 1981. Although block pavements are now in service on airports in at least twelve countries, they remain innovative in comparison to conventional concrete slab pavements. The essential details of block paving, and of its application to airfield pavements, are presented. Factors relating to aircraft safety are discussed and design procedures outlined. Construction of airfield pavements using concrete blocks is shown to be able to reduce interference with airport operations, leading to significant cost savings.
