A motion to secure funding for the scheme was withdrawn from the February Tynwald paper at the 11th hour after it was revealed unexpectedly that barges would not be available this year to bring the large rock armour needed for the promontory.
The extension was initially to be complete by December 2008 with contractual finish by September 2009.
Airport director Ann Reynolds said: 'The barges will be available for supplying rock armour in 2009 and the availability has been reaffirmed formally by the rock armour supplier.
'After careful deliberation of the options open to the department, it has been determined, subject to Tynwald approval, to progress the works over two years, starting with the runway resurfacing work in 2008, and leading on to the creation of the promontory in 2009 when the barges are available.
'It means the creation of longer runway end safety areas (RESAs) to meet new recommended international safety standards, expected to eventually become mandatory, would be complete by December 2009. Contractual completion date is September 2010.'
>> Airport extension plans essential for safety - Shimmin
19 March 2008>> Tynwald to consider £42m runway extension
18 February 2008
Transport Minister David Anderson will seek approval for the new £44,992,342 scheme in Tynwald next week. He said: 'I'm still confident all the work will be finished in time to comply with these regulations becoming mandatory.'
The delay in securing funding from Tynwald – and therefore signing the contract – meant new quotes had to be sought for the work and this brought an extra cost of £2.9m.
This, in the main, is due to the total construction time being 77 weeks, rather than the original 36 weeks. It is also accounted for by the rising cost of oil and the pound being weaker against the Euro.
But, it is also because cash has been set aside for any potential problems, such as £100,000 for an environmental incident taking place at sea during works.
The new construction programme will bring airfield and runway improvements in 2008, the promontory will be built in 2009, and the completion of the surfacing works to be done once the promontory is in place, including drainage and airfield lighting.