Blackpool Airport to close next week
Contributors are not employed, compensated or governed by TD, opinions and statements are from the contributor directly
Blackpool International Airport will stop offering flights from next week after failing to find a new buyer.
Flights to and from the airport will cease on 15 October, with airlines Jet2, Aer Lingus Regional and Citywing affected by the closure.
Owners Balfour Beatty put the airport up for sale in August but a statement from the airport said management had been looking months prior to the announcement.
Around 110 people work at the airport.
A statement from Blackpool International said: “We regret to announce that no agreement has been reached to secure the future of operations at Blackpool Airport. The airport operation has been making a loss for a number of years and unfortunately there is no option for the company other than to close.
“This is a very sad day for the airport which has a proud aviation history and a loyal, appreciative customer following. We would like to thank all our dedicated staff who have delivered exceptional service to passengers for many years.”
It also said talks continued as to whether the airport could operate in the future.
The statement said: “Work is currently underway with the independent aviation businesses and tenants at the airport to understand if their operations can continue in the future. Working in partnership with the local authorities, regeneration plans are also being developed which will be designed to create future employment and sustainable economic development opportunities for Blackpool and the Fylde Coast.”
‘Very damaging to local economy’
Travel agent association ABTA said in a statement the closure would have an impact on the local economy and reiterated its calls for more airport infrastructure in the UK.
“The announcement today that Blackpool airport will be closing as of 15 October will understandably cause concern for passengers due to use the airport after that date; however airlines and tour operators will be in contact with passengers to offer replacement flight options. This loss of a local airport will have a very damaging impact on the local economy in Blackpool with the loss of many ancillary services, and on the wider north west economy,” the statement read.
It continued: “ABTA’s consumer surveys have repeatedly found that people prefer to fly from a local option when one is available, and the UK is crying out for investment in airport infrastructure. The government does not help the situation in maintaining the current level of sky-high aviation taxes, which are destructive of long term economic value.”
Comments are closed.