RAF Northolt runway closes for resurfacing

The runway at RAF Northolt is set to be closed for six months so that planned resurfacing work can take place.

The upgrading and resurfacing work will extend the life of the runway and help operations at the base run more efficiently. The Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) awarded a £23million contract for the work to Lagan Aviation & Infrastructure.

RAF Northolt primarily conducts transport for military and government leaders as well as medical evacuations and aid work. Fixed wing operations will stop while works are taking place but helicopter missions will continue.

Clement Adekoyejo, DIO’s Project Manager for the work said: “Having awarded the contract in October to Lagan Aviation & Infrastructure as the main contractor, and Matt MacDonald as our Principal Support Provider, we’re happy to see everything proceeding to schedule.”

“The preliminary work has been completed and the main job of resurfacing the runway is now starting. We look forward to successful completion of this vital work in the autumn to allow the RAF to continue their operations from RAF Northolt.”

RAF Northolt’s Station Commander, Group Captain Mike Carver said: “These runway works will assure military flying operations at RAF Northolt for decades to come. This is the last remaining military airfield within the M25 and the flying operations we deliver makes a vital contribution for Defence and the United Kingdom. 18 months of detailed planning has gone into this project between military personnel, civil servants and the contractors; the team has worked brilliantly together to get us to this point.”

Work will resurface the runway, improving drainage and installing new arrestor beds which will improve safety and longevity. Preparation work has already begun and other operations are set to continue at the site while work is being completed.

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