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Runway Reopens After Massive £180M Upgrade
13 Nov
Summary
- RAF Brize Norton's runway reopened after a £180m upgrade.
- The entire 1.9-mile runway was dug up and relaid over four months.
- Voyager Vespina, used for VIPs, was the first aircraft to land.
RAF Brize Norton, the largest airbase for the Royal Air Force, has fully resumed operations after a substantial £180 million runway renovation. The base's entire 1.9-mile runway was dug up and relaid, alongside upgrades to taxiways, lighting, and drainage systems. This extensive work was completed over a four-month period.
The first aircraft to grace the new runway was the RAF Voyager Vespina, a familiar sight for VIP transport. Its pilot expressed immense pride and relief in returning home after the temporary relocation of over 40 aircraft. These aircraft operated from seven other UK airfields during the upgrade.
This project ensures the sustainment and modernization of a resilient airfield, vital for the base's role in global air transport, troop movement, and disaster relief. Approximately 5,800 service personnel are typically based at Brize Norton, with many having been temporarily stationed elsewhere during the essential closure.
