The past few days have been extremely busy for snow removal crews at Erie International Airport. They've been battling the heavy snow and high winds to keep the airport open.
They have strict standards to follow, basically runways and taxiways have to be clear of snow and ice to ensure pilots have enough braking distance. And unlike road crews, they can't use salt that could cause corrosion in airplanes.
Despite high winds that hampered visibility, the airport remained open today. Crews have been working around the clock since the storm began using huge brooms and blowers. But the work has become more difficult as the wind picked up, cutting visibility.
The 6 member crew says the key to clearing the runways is working as a team.
Airport Field Maintenance worker Bill Nichols said, "We work very well together. It does take a lot of teamwork. But we do work very well together."
Fellow employee Tim Marton said, "We've got 6 guys who kind of belong to the airport in the winter, call them in they are here. We all have enough experience. We know the job, know what has to be done and we just do it."
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