Doncaster Sheffield Airport is to welcome its first large jet since the airport’s 2022 closure.

The last jet to leave Doncaster Sheffield Airport following its closure in 2022 is set for a landmark return, touching down at the base tomorrow (Apr 28).

2Excel Aviation, which has its main operating base at the airport employing around 200 people on site, will land its Oil Spill Response Aircraft, at 11am.

The plane, a specially adapted Boeing 727, which was previously based full-time at the airport, will land at 11am from its current base at Southend and take off from Doncaster again at around 3pm local time.

A ‘NOTAM’ (Notice to Aviation) has been issued ahead of the aircraft’s arrival, warning against any conflicting aviation activities around the airport, including drone flights.

The visit will act as an important test-event during the reopening project.

Simon Hinchley, Executive Director – Airport Operations at Doncaster Sheffield Airport, said: “The arrival of this aircraft is an important and very deliberate step in our journey towards reopening Doncaster Sheffield Airport.

“Welcoming the first large jet since 2022 will allow us to thoroughly test our airfield infrastructure, operational systems, and assets in a live environment.

“This operation demonstrates that the airport’s core infrastructure remains robust, compliant, and capable of safely supporting jet operations.

“It also provides invaluable assurance to regulators, partners, and stakeholders that our airfield, procedures, and teams are progressing exactly as planned.

“This flight is not just symbolic - it is about operational readiness.

“It confirms that Doncaster Sheffield Airport is moving from planning into practical delivery, and it marks the beginning of a phased programme of testing and activity that will support our safe and sustainable return to full operations.”

While the public are not actively being encouraged to visit the airport during the event, anyone wishing to attend is being asked to plan their attendance carefully and respect the operational integrity of the site.

The car park outside the main terminal building will be open, with security staff marshalling any visitors to the viewing area.

Anyone attending will only be able to view the aircraft from the viewing area in the VIP car park, or public land in and around the airport.

Mr Hinchley added: “We ask that anyone who is minded to visit, be respectful of our team and neighbours, leave plenty of time to travel and to comply with any requests we ask of them.”