Aberdeen International Airport and CHC Helicopter are set to welcome 400 runners back onto the tarmac as the highly anticipated Runway Run returns for its seventh year on Saturday, 20 June 2026.
The unique midnight event, which sees participants take on a 4km course along the illuminated runway, has grown into a major fixture in the region’s fundraising calendar. Last year’s event raised £65,000 for local charities, adding to the more than £250,000 generated since the run began.
Tickets for the 2026 event will go on sale at 6pm this Thursday, 21st May with organisers encouraging participants to secure their places early as demand is expected to be high.
This year’s run will once again raise funds for Aberdeen International Airport’s charity partner, SAMH, as well as CHC Helicopter’s chosen charity, Lifestars.
For the first time, participants also get to choose a charity of their own to receive a portion of their fundraising. Using the platform GiveWheel, which participants will need to sign up for as part of the event, will allow them to pick their own charity to receive 30% of their fundraising efforts.
CHC Helicopter Captain and event founder Ryan Broadhurst said: “We’re thrilled to be returning for the seventh Runway Run. Each year the support from the local community grows, and it’s incredible to see so many people come together for such a unique and memorable experience. We’re looking forward to welcoming new and returning runners for another special night on the runway.”
Robert Paterson, Operations Director at Aberdeen International Airport, added: “The Runway Run has become one of the most exciting dates in our annual calendar. It’s a fantastic way to open up our airfield in a controlled, safe and fun environment while raising vital funds for charities that make a real difference locally. We’re proud to partner with CHC Helicopter once again and grateful to the many sponsors who help make the event possible.”
Hazel McIlwraith, Director of Fundraising and Major Appeal at SAMH, said: "We'd like to thank all the adventurous runners who are staying up past their usual bedtime to take part in the Runway Run!
“The money you raise will help fund life-saving local mental health services. We will soon be bringing The Nook to Aberdeen, offering free, accessible mental health support seven days a week and adding to the support we already deliver in the North East."
Willie McPherson, Chief Fundraising Officer for Lifestars, said: “Being chosen as one of the charities to be benefit from the Runway Run is a huge honour for Lifestars.
“A massive thank you to CHC Helicopters and Aberdeen International Airport for selecting us. Ever since my daughter founded the charity 9 years ago, raising funds has been hugely important in allowing us to improve children’s lives who need our support.
“The support from this will help fund several of our new major projects and for that we are hugely grateful. Working my entire career in the travel industry this is an event I love supporting as I can see the wonderful joy it brings. On behalf of Lifestars thank you all for the incredible support.”
Participants of all abilities are welcome to take part. Times will be recorded using chip technology, and a sponsorship target of £100 per runner is encouraged.
The 2026 event is made possible thanks to the continued support of sponsors including ACE, Stagecoach, NATs, Ross Promo, AV1, GJ Services, ICTS, Ferrier Pumps and Dewhurst Airfield Services.
Tickets, priced at £30, will be available from the official Runway Run website at www.aberdeenrunwayrun.co.uk