A major upgrade at RAF Brize Norton has moved into its next phase after contractors broke out more than 42,250m³ of material from the airfield’s existing runway.
VolkerFitzpatrick is delivering the £180 million project at the Royal Air Force’s principal air mobility hub, with more than 80% of the runway surface now removed. The progress has been achieved over the past three weeks, with around 500 people working across the airfield.
Three-kilometre runway being replaced
The scheme includes the full replacement of RAF Brize Norton’s three-kilometre runway, as well as improvements to airfield lighting and drainage infrastructure.
A broad range of specialist plant and equipment has supported the work. Careful planning and collaboration between the teams involved have helped the project advance quickly while maintaining a focus on safe delivery.
The removal of 42,250m³ of material clears the way for the next stage: reconstructing the runway to provide a modernised surface for the airfield.
Material to be reused in the new runway
Much of the material removed during the breakout will be reused within the replacement runway. This approach is intended to reduce waste and limit the environmental impact of the construction work.
The upgrade is designed to improve RAF Brize Norton’s long-term operational capability, safety and resilience. As the project continues, VolkerFitzpatrick says its focus remains on delivering the modernised airfield safely and efficiently.
The milestone reflects the combined efforts of the personnel, specialists and equipment teams working on one of the UK’s major aviation infrastructure projects.
