Project Updates
Update Six: Tuesday 15 August 2023
Work to resurface the runway is now nearing completion. The existing surface has been removed and replaced with approximately 8000 tonne of asphalt.
With the asphalt laid there is some landscaping work to be undertaken, the airport will return to normal operating hours once this is complete, date to be confirmed.
Airport Manager, Niall Colthart, shared the below picture of work.
Our contractor for the project, Breedons, provided the below imagery.
Update Five: Thursday 10 August 2023
Work is continuing to progress well as part of the project to refurbish the runway. The reduced opening hours schedule has been extended, with operating hours expected to return to normal soon, date to be confirmed. The terminal building will be open as normal.
Temporary Operating Hours
Monday to Friday: 08:30-09:30 and 17:00-18:40
Saturday : 08:30-09:30
Sunday: 15:00-16:55
Update Four: Friday 23 June 2023
Contractors began work on Monday 19 June to resurface runway 08/26. With 1500 ton of asphalt laid by Thursday night, the first phase of the project is now complete. Focus will now shift to resurfacing the main runway.
For the duration of this phase of the project, the airport will be operating reduced opening hours. Operating hours are expected to return to normal week commencing 7 August. The terminal building will be open as normal.
Temporary Operating Hours
Monday to Friday: 08:30-09:30 and 17:00-18:40
Saturday : 08:30-09:30
Sunday: 15:00-16:55
Pictured: Work begins on runway resurfacing project
Update Three: Tuesday 23 May 2023
Islay Airport will close following the morning Loganair flight at 10am on Friday 28 July 2023 and will re-open for the evening flight at 5pm on Tuesday 1 August 2023.
This is to allow essential works to take place as part of our runway rehabilitation project.
We apologise in advance for any inconvenience this short closure may cause.
Update Two: Monday 15 May 2023
Preparation for the Runway Resurfacing project at Islay Airport is in progress. Equipment used for manufacturing the runway’s asphalt mixture has now been set up. Contractors will begin trials of the asphalt mix during week commencing Monday 22 May.
The improvements required to aid road access for the community to the Big Strand have now been completed. Visitors using this track to access the beach are asked to please observe the 10mph speed limit.
We are working hard to minimise any disruptions caused by the project work and thank you for your patience as the resurfacing develops.
Pictured: Asphalt mixture equipment being set up for asphalt mix trials
Update One: Friday 21st April 2023
In advance of the Runway Resurfacing Project at Islay Airport, we will be undertaking works to improve road access to the Big Strand, week commencing 24 April.
During this time, we are asking visitors that wish to access the beach to park their cars near the beach rather than use the car parking at the airport. This is to allow the contractors to safely manage the flow of traffic.
Preparation work is underway for the resurfacing work, and we are expecting delivery of plant machinery and equipment over the coming few weeks via chartered shipping. This will arrive at Port Ellen and be transported to the Airport via road.
We are working hard to minimise any disruptions caused by the work, and thank you for your patience during this time.
Pictured: Equipment arriving at Port Askaig, Islay for Runway Project
