Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA) has officially launched a three-month consultation period this week, marking a significant step towards its long-awaited reopening. The airport, which closed four years ago, is now inviting residents, stakeholders, and business owners to share their views on the proposed plans. This development follows a series of key milestones earlier this year, including a £57 million loan approval from Doncaster Council and the first jet landing at the site since its closure.
Background: A Hub That Closed Its Doors
Once a thriving aviation hub in South Yorkshire, DSA served 50 destinations across Europe before its closure. Its former owners, Peel Group, cited financial non-viability as the reason for shutting down operations. However, the airport's fortunes appear to be turning, with renewed efforts to bring it back to life.
The consultation, which will run over the next three months, is described by airport bosses as 'crucial'. They are keen to gather feedback from as many people as possible, using a variety of methods including leaflet drops to nearby households, webinars, and in-person events. This engagement is seen as vital to ensuring the reopening plans align with community needs and expectations.
Key Developments Paving the Way
In April, a large jet landed at DSA for the first time since its closure, signalling the start of ambitious plans to restart operations. The aircraft, which is on constant standby as a response to oil spills worldwide, was welcomed by staff who called the arrival an 'amazing moment' for aviation and the community. Christian Foster, director of airport operator FlyDoncaster Ltd, expressed his excitement, telling news outlets: 'It’s quite a moment seeing a jet land at the airport for the first time in almost four years.'
Just weeks later, in mid-May, Doncaster Council approved a £57 million loan to help kickstart the project. This decision came after months of disagreement between Labour and Reform UK councillors, making the approval a surprising turn of events. Mark Chadwick, a campaigner for the #SaveDSA group, reacted to the news by telling the Doncaster Free Press: 'After years of uncertainty, today’s result provides long-awaited clarity and sends a strong message that elected representatives have listened to the voices of local residents, businesses, trade unions and 40k plus supporters across the region. People have consistently made it clear: they want Doncaster Sheffield Airport reopened and delivering jobs, connectivity, and economic growth once again.'
Economic and Regional Impact
The reopening of DSA is expected to have a significant impact on South Yorkshire's economy and connectivity. Tourism expert Christian Petzold previously told Metro that the project is an important step towards international connections for the region. He noted: 'Currently it remains the largest city-region in Europe without access to a functioning airport. When reopened, the airport will significantly reduce the reliance of passengers and businesses on airports like Manchester, Leeds Bradford and East Midlands.'
Travel times to an airport would be reduced from over 90 minutes to approximately 30-40 minutes, a substantial improvement for both passengers and businesses. This could boost local tourism, attract investment, and create jobs, all of which are crucial for the region's post-pandemic recovery.
Consultation Details and Next Steps
During the consultation period, the airport will engage with the community through various channels. Leaflets will be delivered to nearby households, and webinars and in-person events will be hosted to facilitate dialogue. The feedback gathered will be used to refine the reopening plans, which are expected to include both passenger and cargo services.
Airport bosses have emphasised the importance of public input, stating that they want to hear from as many people as possible. This inclusive approach is designed to ensure that the reopening benefits the entire community and addresses any concerns that may arise.
Broader Context: Other Airport Reopenings
The move to reopen DSA comes amid a wider trend of airports being brought back into operation. In Spain, Ciudad Real International Airport (CRIA), often called the country's 'ghost airport', has reopened after being shut for 14 years. Located around 150 miles south of Madrid, the airport's 28,000 sq ft terminal will welcome passengers again, primarily for private flights from Europe and the US, as well as specialist aviation. New managing director Rafael Gómez Arribas confirmed that CRIA will not handle commercial journeys, but this could help ease pressure on other Spanish airports dealing with millions of travellers annually.
While the Spanish airport's reopening is on a smaller scale, it highlights the potential for dormant airports to find new purpose. For DSA, the consultation is a critical step in a journey that could see the airport once again become a key transport hub for South Yorkshire.
