Southampton runway extension

The runway extension at Southampton Airport is now officially approved and open, and will be celebrated at a party later in the month.

Whilst the 164m, £17 million, tarmac increase does not sound much in terms of distance, it will enable airlines such as easyJet to operate Airbus A320 series planes to many distant airports without too many restrictions on passenger loads and range.  EasyJet has already announced the start of routes this winter from Belfast (from 29 October) and Glasgow (starts 2 November).

The work took 43,000 hours, involved laying 6,040 tonnes of asphalt, plus 3,345 tonnes of concrete.

One of the major beneficiaries of the runway increase will be the cruise lines using Britian’s largest cruise port.  It is just 20 minutes/5 miles away (depending on which terminal).  EasyJet, and any other airline, will need to be careful with its Southampton timings, ideally around midday, to allow arriving and departing passengers to crossover smoothly.  Seven days a week requirement is necessary to fit in with arrivals and departures of ships. Portsmouth cruise terminal is 30 minutes away. (20 miles).

Steve Szalay, who is standing down as Operations Director at Southampton Airport at the end of the summer season, said: “It has been an absolute privilege to have led such a dedicated group of people, all of whom have worked tirelessly to bring success to Southampton Airport. This commitment to serving our passengers came to the fore during the pandemic when we kept the airport open to support lifeline services to the Channel Islands which is something I will always be proud of”.

“In speaking with our local communities, business groups and elected representatives, I know just how valued the airport is due to the important role it plays in supporting employment and providing the connectivity that underpins the wider regional economy. The completion of the runway extension later this year will mark a new chapter in the airport’s long history and I leave knowing it has an exciting future ahead”.

Southampton Airport is owned by AGS Group, whose portfolio includes Aberdeen and Glasgow airports.

www.southamptonairport.com

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