Oregon could experience a magnitude-8.7 or larger earthquake within 50 years that causes catastrophic deaths and damage. Portland International Airport (PDX) can play a crucial role speeding the response and recovery and prevent much of the harm. The Port of Portland engaged the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) to estimate the benefit of protecting PDX’s south runway from earthquake damage. NIBS estimates savings of $7.4 billion, which is 50 times the cost. Fact Sheet | Overview