Doncaster Sheffield Airport takes step towards reopening with first large jet landing since 2022

Doncaster Sheffield Airport has moved closer to a potential reopening following the arrival of a Boeing 727 as part of a programme of operational readiness assessments.

The aircraft, operated by 2Excel Aviation, landed at the airport in late April, marking the first time a large jet has touched down at the site since it closed in November 2022.

The Boeing 727—commonly used for specialist roles such as oil spill response and aerial monitoring—is being deployed to test key aspects of the airport’s infrastructure. These include runway performance, taxiway operations, ground handling processes and coordination with air traffic control. Its demanding operational profile is expected to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the airport’s capabilities.

The test flights represent both a practical milestone and a symbolic step forward, indicating a shift from planning towards implementation in efforts to bring the airport back into use. Further validation flights and operational checks are expected before any decision is made on resuming commercial services.

2Excel Aviation previously maintained a significant presence at Doncaster Sheffield Airport, operating from Hangar 3where it carried out maintenance, engineering and specialist aviation work. The site served as a key base for its Boeing 727 operations, supporting missions including environmental response and surveillance, as well as wider certification and defence-related activity.

Since the airport’s closure, the company has retained its facilities and workforce on-site while relocating flight operations elsewhere. It has since taken an active role in the airport’s potential reopening, including supporting the current testing programme.

2Excel has indicated that Doncaster Sheffield Airport remains strategically important to its future operations, with scope for further growth as redevelopment plans progress.