Doncaster Sheffield Airport orders multimillion-pound RTX radar ahead of reopening

Doncaster Sheffield Airport has placed a multimillion-pound order for a new radar system as preparations continue for the airport’s planned reopening.

The airport has appointed RTX’s Raytheon UK to supply and install the system, which is due to be delivered next year.

The radar represents the largest capital investment made during the project’s pre-opening phase and will form a key part of Doncaster Sheffield Airport’s future air traffic operations.

New radar will reduce reliance on third-party systems

The order has been placed at a time of increased global demand for radar systems, driven in part by heightened military requirements.

Raytheon UK supplies air traffic management systems to customers in 45 countries and the new equipment will provide DSA with more advanced capability than the radar used before the airport closed in 2022.

The high-resolution system is also designed to mitigate potential interference from wind farms, an increasingly important consideration as renewable energy infrastructure expands around UK airports.

Having its own modern radar capability will also reduce DSA’s reliance on systems operated by third parties.

Simon Hinchley, Executive Director of Airport Operations, described the order as one of the most significant steps yet towards reopening.

“The safety of our customers will underpin the operational success of Doncaster Sheffield Airport. Placing this significant order – arguably the most important step in the reopening of this airport to date – speaks volumes about the intent and sense of direction.

“During this procurement process, we looked carefully at the market and assessed the operational needs of this airport for the future. RTX is a trusted name in the sector, with a high degree of experience across civilian and military applications and we very much look forward to working with them over the coming years.”

Kevin Hobson, Director and General Manager, Raytheon UK – Services, added: “This is a critical investment in airport infrastructure that will help deliver safe, efficient and reliable operations.

“With specialist radar systems requiring significant manufacturing and installation lead times, we recognise the importance of this project and are proud to support DSA with industry-leading technology and expertise.”

Reopening preparations continue

The radar investment comes as Doncaster Sheffield Airport progresses through the Airspace Change Process needed to restore controlled airspace around the site.

A public consultation opened on 3 August and runs until 4 October 2026, with freight and limited passenger operations currently expected to begin in 2027, followed by more substantial scheduled passenger services from 2028.

More than 80 people are now employed at the airport as FlyDoncaster builds the operational capability needed for reopening.

Earlier this year, the airport announced a series of appointments to its Air Traffic Services team alongside investment in air traffic control facilities and training equipment.

FlyDoncaster Ltd. will reopen and operate the airport, which is intended to become a significant part of the transport infrastructure serving South Yorkshire and the wider North of England.

Before its closure, Doncaster Sheffield Airport handled short- and long-haul services from a range of airlines. Its existing terminal has capacity for up to four million passengers a year, while the airport says the site could accommodate around 40,000 aircraft movements annually.

The City of Doncaster Council and South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority are backing the reopening project, which is forecast to contribute £5 billion to the regional economy by 2050.