A Typhoon fighter jet has conducted take-off and landing manoeuvres from a taxiway at RAF Akrotiri, demonstrating how the RAF routinely applies flexible operating methods to sustain air operations when conditions change.
The activity reflects Agile Combat Employment (ACE) in practice, showing how infrastructure, procedures and people adapt at pace to maintain Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) output without disruption. The RAF is built to respond anytime, anywhere, and this activity is one of many examples of ACE being applied daily across operations to ensure air power remains available when it is needed.
Operating from alternative surfaces ensures the RAF can continue to generate fast jet capability without reliance on primary runways, supporting responsive operations in a dynamic environment.
On 14 June 2026, a Typhoon aircraft used a taxiway at RAF Akrotiri to conduct a series of manoeuvres, confirming its suitability as a contingency operating surface as part of routine operational development.
The serial included two low approaches, a touch-and-go and a full-stop landing, reinforcing confidence in the procedure and its safe integration into normal flying activity.
The work builds on real-world experience, including a recent temporary runway closure, and demonstrates how RAF teams continually adapt to ensure operations continue without interruption.
Station Operations and Air Traffic Control teams worked alongside the IX (B) Squadron Typhoon detachment and RAF specialists to refine and validate the approach as part of ongoing operational practice.
Taxiways will continue to be used as a daytime contingency option for emergency and QRA departures, supporting the RAF’s ability to remain responsive, resilient and ready to operate at any time.
