BLOUNTVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WSMV) — A massive sinkhole has forced the closure of a runway at Tri-Cities Airport in Sullivan County.
Airport officials said Tuesday that Runway 5/23 is closed after crews discovered a large sinkhole beneath the surface. The hole measures approximately 20 feet by 20 feet and is about 17 feet deep — roughly the height of a one-story house.
“Repair efforts are currently underway,” airport officials said in a statement, noting the runway is expected to remain closed through Wednesday.
The closure is impacting airline operations, with officials warning that flights will not be able to operate as normal until the runway reopens. Travelers planning to fly in or out of the Tri-Cities Airport are encouraged to check with their airline for the latest updates on delays or schedule changes.
Airport leaders said the issue was first identified Tuesday and an update was issued just over two hours later. Additional information will be provided as repairs continue.
WSMV has reached out to airport officials for further details.
