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Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Tingwall Runway Works Set to Ground Flights for May

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Tingwall Airport will close to all flights this May as major resurfacing work begins on its runway and apron.

The project is scheduled to start on Monday 5 May and will run until Friday 30 May, grounding all inter-island flights during that period.

Flights usually operated from Tingwall will be temporarily relocated to Sumburgh Airport, with services set to resume from Tingwall on Monday 2 June.

Airtask, which runs the inter-island air services, has adjusted its timetable and published the changes on its website for passenger reference.

To maintain travel connections, the Dial-a-Ride service linking Viking Bus Station and Tingwall will be re-routed to Sumburgh during the works.

Passengers using the Dial-a-Ride must pre-book by 4pm the day before travel by calling 01595 745745.

Regular bus Service 6 will continue to link Sumburgh Airport with Lerwick and the wider South Mainland, offering another transport option for travellers.

More details on public transport arrangements can be found on the ZetTrans website or the Shetland Travel App.

The runway resurfacing is being delivered by Shetland Islands Council’s Roads Service, with additional machinery brought in to help complete the job.

An estimated 3,500 tonnes of asphalt will be used to cover the 805-metre stretch of runway and adjacent apron.

This demand will be met by the Council-run Scord Quarry, which will prioritise asphalt supply for the airport works throughout May.

Contractors needing asphalt during this time are encouraged to contact the quarry to check availability based on their needs.

The surface of the runway has been gradually deteriorating, requiring frequent maintenance and now a complete resurfacing to meet safety standards.

The work is essential for the airport’s continued operation and to maintain its licence with the Civil Aviation Authority.

The total cost of the resurfacing project is expected to be around £1.3 million.

Tingwall Airport is operated by Shetland Islands Council, with flights provided by Airtask and services specified by the regional transport partnership ZetTrans.

Councillor Moraig Lyall, Chair of the Council’s Environment and Transport Committee and ZetTrans, said the works are a vital investment in lifeline connectivity.

She highlighted the importance of Tingwall Airport for the communities of Foula and Fair Isle, who depend on reliable flights for daily life.

She said the investment ensures Tingwall remains a key hub for island travel and strengthens the resilience of Shetland’s transport infrastructure.

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