Bournemouth Airport will temporarily support RAF operations while runway work takes place at RAF Brize Norton.
The airport may be used occasionally by the RAF’s A400 Atlas and C17 Globemaster fleets while the Oxfordshire base undergoes runway resurfacing and upgrade work, with most aircraft operating from MOD Boscombe Down in Wiltshire.
RAF Brize Norton is the UK’s main military air mobility hub, supporting the movement of personnel, equipment and humanitarian supplies around the world.
Bournemouth Airport will provide additional support when needed, alongside other UK airports being used during the temporary relocation of RAF aircraft.
The A400 Atlas is a transport aircraft which can carry up to 116 passengers, 66 stretchers or a maximum payload of 37 tonnes.
The C17 Globemaster is used for heavy-lift transport and can support combat, peacekeeping and humanitarian missions, including long-distance aeromedical evacuation flights.
Steve Gill, Managing Director of Bournemouth Airport, said the site was “well equipped” to accommodate aircraft of that size.
He said the airport was proud to support the RAF while work was carried out at Brize Norton and help it continue its operations during the period.
Mr Gill added that the temporary movements would not affect passenger services, while giving aviation enthusiasts a “rare opportunity” to see RAF aircraft at Bournemouth.
The aircraft are expected to operate from Bournemouth on an occasional basis until the work is completed later this autumn.
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