RAF Brize Norton airfield resurfacing works take shape ahead of major runway upgrade
RAF Brize Norton has reached a major milestone in the delivery of its Aircraft Operating Surfaces programme, with the successful commissioning of two new asphalt plants on site. This is ahead of its major runway upgrade, carried out by VolkerFitzpatrick.
The milestone was marked by personnel from across the project, including team members from RAF Brize Norton, VolkerFitzpatrick, Breedon and AECOM.
As the Royal Air Force’s primary strategic air transport hub, RAF Brize Norton plays a critical role in enabling the UK’s global operations and rapid response capability. The integrity and performance of its runway infrastructure are therefore fundamental to operational readiness and national resilience.
The installation and commissioning of the on-site asphalt plants represents a significant step forward in delivering this upgrade. By producing high-specification asphalt directly at the airfield—supported by approximately 70,000 tonnes of aggregate stock—the programme strengthens supply chain resilience, improves quality control, and minimises operational disruption to flying activities.
The milestone follows an extensive programme of site investigations, detailed engineering design and environmental planning with close collaboration between the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), RAF Brize Norton, VolkerFitzpatrick and AECOM – showcasing a strong partnership across all involved.
VolkerFitzpatrick is extremely proud to be part of the AOS works delivery team at RAF Brize Norton, contributing to one of the most significant infrastructure programmes currently underway within the Defence estate. The partnership has demonstrated strong and consistent collaboration across the teams, effectively navigating what can be challenging environment to make the scale and complexity of the scheme deliverable. Throughout the early works phase, the team has shown exceptional levels of engagement, disciplined execution, and a commitment to continuous learning. These qualities have already resulted in amazing delivery, reinforcing the strength of the integrated project team and its ability to perform to the highest standards. This progress provides a crucial springboard as the programme transitions toward the next stage. Collectively, the team has established a really solid foundation from which to continue building, ensuring that all partners are aligned and well positioned for the commencement of main works, and we look forward to making our contribution to critical infrastructure capability at RAF Brize Norton.
Jeff Carter Project Director, VolkerFitzpatrick
Main construction is scheduled to progress from spring this year, with delivery continuing through to project completion in 2027. VolkerFitzpatrick remains firmly committed to supporting this next phase and to maintaining the collaborative approach that has characterised the project to date.
