Site visit: RAF Brize Norton Airfield Improvement Works

Overview

The RAF Brize Norton Airfield Improvement Works are a major £180 million infrastructure investment programme designed to modernise and enhance the RAF's principal air mobility hub. Delivered through the RAF's Aircraft Operating Surfaces (AOS) Programmatic Approach, the project includes the full reconstruction of the station's three-kilometre runway, refurbishment of taxiways and associated infrastructure, replacement of airfield lighting systems, and improvements to drainage and other critical airfield assets.

The programme is being delivered on behalf of the Royal Air Force and Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), with VolkerFitzpatrick appointed as the principal construction contractor and AECOM serving as the Technical Services Provider. Construction commenced in 2026 using a phased delivery approach to minimise operational impact while maintaining the Air Mobility Force's ability to fulfil global commitments.

Once complete, the project will provide a safer, more resilient and future-proofed airfield, ensuring RAF Brize Norton remains capable of supporting strategic air mobility, operational deployments and humanitarian missions for decades to come. The overall programme is expected to be completed in 2027 and represents one of the most significant recent investments in RAF airfield infrastructure.

The site visit is open exclusively to ICE Thames Valley Early Career Network (ECN) members, and places are strictly limited to 20 attendees. The visit will provide a unique opportunity to gain first-hand insight into a major defence AOS project in delivery, as well as meet and network with representatives from the Royal Air Force, Defence Infrastructure Organisation, AECOM and VolkerFitzpatrick.

Identification or nationality requirements

Personnel to bring photo identification to gain access. No restrictions on nationality.

Photography

No photography to be taken on the site visit.

PPE requirements

Attendees must provide and wear their own PPE . Those who do not arrive with the required PPE will not be permitted to take part in the site visit.

Required PPE: Safety helmet, safety boots, high-visibility clothing (jacket or vest), safety glasses/eye protection, and gloves.

Transport and parking

Attendees are required to arrive under their own arrangements. As car parking on-site is limited, car sharing is advised where possible.

Programme