First large jet in four years lands at Doncaster Sheffield Airport

Doncaster Sheffield Airport is preparing for a potential reopening, with the recent arrival of a Boeing 727 marking the start of a readiness assessments.

image: Sheffield Doncaster Airport

Under the test programme the Boeing 727, operated by 2Excel Aviation, landed at the airport in late April, the first large jet to land there since its closure in November 2022

The aircraft, typically used for specialist missions such as oil spill response and aerial surveillance, is being used to test runway performance, taxiways, ground handling and coordination with air traffic services. Its relatively demanding operational requirements are expected to provide a robust assessment of the airport’s infrastructure.

The planned test flights are both practical and symbolic for plans to reopen the airport, signalling a transition from planning to implementation. The testing programme is expected to continue with further aircraft movements and validation exercises before any return to commercial operations.

2Excel Aviation had a significant presence at the airport prior to its closure in 2022, operating from Hangar 3 where it carried out aircraft maintenance, engineering and specialist aviation services. The airport served as a key operational base for the company, including its Boeing 727 fleet used in missions such as oil spill response, alongside broader work in certification, surveillance and defence-related activities.

Since the closure, 2Excel has maintained a continued presence at the site, retaining its facilities and workforce while relocating flying operations elsewhere. More recently, it has been playing an active role in efforts to prepare the airport for reopening, including the validation flights to assess runway and operational readiness.

The company has indicated that the airport remains strategically important to its future plans, with potential for further expansion as redevelopment progresses.