Runners take off at Glasgow Airport for historic night-time fun run

Glasgow Airport opened its runway to runners for the first time in its history as part of the city’s official Glasgow 850 celebrations.

Fifty participants took to the tarmac at 3am as part of the Run the Runway with participants running just over 5km run during a narrow break from the busy airport’s operations.

Demand far outstripped the places available – over 800 runners from this year’s Great Scottish Run applied for just 50 coveted spots.

The event was delivered in partnership with Glasgow City Council, AJ Bell Great Scottish Run, and Glasgow Airport. Local run collective Stride and the Glasgow-based Outlier Run Club supported the event by leading the warm-up and pacing runners around the course.

Matthew Wilson, Head of Aerodrome Operations at Glasgow Airport, said: “It was an absolute privilege to welcome runners onto our runway for this one-of-a-kind event, the likes of which we have never facilitated before.

“Glasgow Airport has been part of the city’s story for over six decades, so to play a role in the Glasgow 850 celebrations in such a unique and memorable way was incredibly special, and unlikely to be repeated.

“Staging a runway event at a live international airport is no small feat. The operation required meticulous planning and coordination across airside operations, security, and air traffic control to ensure the event could take place safely during a narrow window in the early hours. We’re proud to have worked closely with our partners to make it happen.”

Run the Runway also helped build excitement for the AJ Bell Great Scottish Run, Scotland’s biggest mass-participation running event.

More than 30,000 people of all ages and abilities are set to take part on Sunday, October 5.

Cllr Susan Aitken, leader of Glasgow City Council, said: “Within our year-long Glasgow 850 programme this is certainly the most unique event that we’ve held. Glasgow Airport plays an important role both in serving our citizens and being the gateway to our city for visitors, and I’m pleased that we’ve been able to partner with them to create something special during our anniversary year.

“As well as a celebration, Glasgow 850 is about our citizens sharing stories and making memories, and taking part in this fun run will certainly create both for those participating.”

Callum Matthews from Stride Athletics said: “As a group which strives to keep athletics fresh and forward-thinking, we are delighted to partner with Great Run and support this unique event, gearing athletes up ahead of the Great Scottish Run.

“Giving runners access to Glasgow Airport will be an unforgettable experience for all involved, and I’m sure everyone savoured every second on the runway.”

The unique event is part of the Glasgow’s year-long civic programme marking 850 years since it was granted Royal Burgh status.