Run the Runway event at Bristol Airport raises £8,000 for charity

Run the Runway event at Bristol Airport raises £8,000 for air ambulance charity

Approximately 300 people took part in a midnight charity run – with the difference being they were running along an airport runway.

Both runners and walkers raised over £8,000.00 for Great Western Air Ambulance Charity after completing Bristol Airport’s ‘Run the Runway’ event during Friday night (7th March 2025).

The fundraising runway event provided an opportunity for all abilities to either walk or run the length of the Airport’s 2,011 metre runway, with some participants completing a 2km race, whilst others with a sporting ability completing the 5k distance. The fundraising event started at just after midnight, whilst the Bristol Airport runway was temporarily suspended for aircraft, to enable planned routine electrical maintenance to take place. The fundraising event was participated by teams and business partners across the Airport, including friends and family.

A big thank you to the support of Lagan Specialist Contracting Group and Centreline for their donations, and to the incredible fundraising efforts of all runway participants.

The Runway Run, was organised to support and raise funds for the Airport’s charity partnership, Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC). GWAAC respond to people in urgent need of critical care. They perform procedures normally only seen inside a hospital emergency department, for patients whose survival relies on receiving that treatment right there at the scene.

Christine Hansford, Communications and Engagement Partner, Bristol Airport said:

“The event proved a unique opportunity for people to run along a runway for a good cause. It has raised much needed funds for the incredible Great Western Air Ambulance Charity, which will go towards helping the charity save lives across the region.

“The ‘Run the Runway’ event creates a lot of excitement and enjoyment, and this year was no exception. We were so delighted to welcome so many runners and walkers, including friends and family members, from across the Airport for this unique event.

“This year’s ‘Run the Runway’ would not be possible without significant teamwork prior to and during the event and I’m so grateful to all those who have supported with the organisation of the event.”

Joe Hughes, Strategic Partnerships Manager, Great Western Air Ambulance Charity said:

“We’re so grateful to Bristol Airport and of course all the wonderful participants who came together to support GWAAC in this year’s ‘Run the Runway’ event. £8,000 is an incredible amount of money, and with 2024 being our busiest year on record and 2025 showing no signs of slowing, it’s more important than ever that we have the support of local businesses and communities so we can continue to provide urgent lifesaving care to those who need us in our region.”