The Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) has contracted VolkerFitzpatrick to deliver improvements to the RAF Coningsby’s Air Operating Surfaces, including the airfield’s taxiways and apron areas. Aecom is consulting engineer for the scheme.
VolkerFitzpatrick was first engaged for the project last summer, under an £18.6m construction contract. With work now starting, the DIO says the total project cost is £28m.
RAF Coningsby, in Lincolnshire, is one of two RAF Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) stations that protect UK airspace, with pilots and supporting personnel on standby 24 hours a day. The station is home to two frontline combat-ready squadrons – 3 (Fighter) Squadron and XI (Fighter) Squadron – as well as 29 Squadron, which trains the next generation of Typhoon pilots.
RAF Coningsby’s role as a QRA station means that its Typhoons must be ready to launch at all times, meaning all construction works have to be planned around the airfield’s 24-hour alert commitment.
DIO project manager Dan Wilmott said: “This is an important investment in one of the UK’s most operationally significant air stations. RAF Coningsby’s role in defending UK airspace never stops, so delivering these improvements while maintaining the constant readiness of the Quick Reaction Alert has required careful planning.”
The project is expected to be completed in October 2026.
Got a story? Email [email protected]
