Blackpool Airport set to close
As of 15 October, Blackpool International Airport will close as there has been no agree reached to secure the future of operations from the site.
Despite Blackpool International Airport, the regional air hub for Lancashire and the Lake District, being on the market since August, Balfour Beatty have announced that the airport will have to close with the passing of their October 7 deadline. This follows years of losses for the operator.
Issuing a statement on the airpirt website, passengers were told to contact their airlines to confirm their travel arrangements.
Jet2, Aer Lingus Regional and Citywing are the three airlines which operate from Blackpool. Jet2 intends to transfer their Blackpool flights to Manchester from Friday 10 October. Citywing has said that any customers affected by the closure would be contacted. Aer Lingus is yet to make any announcement.
The Blackpool Airport Statement read as follows:
“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.
“The airport will remain open to the public until 15 October 2014 and we will endeavour to maintain operations as normal until this date, after which time commercial flights will cease.”
A spokesman for Balfour Beatty said:
“Balfour Beatty remains the owner of the Blackpool Airport site and will continue to work with the independent aviation businesses currently operating from Blackpool to develop a sustainable future for aviation services. We will also support the airport and local councils who are working together to develop regeneration plans for the area, which are designed to generate future employment and sustainable economic development opportunities for Blackpool and the Fylde.”
Words: Peter Cribley