Coventry Airport is set to close permanently on 11 June 2026, with all aviation operations ceasing this week. The final commercial flight brought pop group Take That, marking the end of its 90-year history. Originally opened as RAF Baginton Aerodrome during World War II, the airport later served Wizz Air flights to European destinations such as Poland and Italy until 2008, and welcomed Pope John Paul II in 1982.
The closure makes way for Green Power Park, a battery gigafactory that received planning permission in 2022. The site is part of the West Midlands Investment Zone, a government initiative expected to create over 30,000 jobs and attract £5.5 billion in private investment. The Rigby Group, which owns the airport, said the move enables the next phase of infrastructure work.
The Air Ambulance Service, which operates from the airport, will not be immediately affected. A spokesperson confirmed that missions will continue from Coventry until a new £14m purpose-built base in Catthorpe, Leicestershire, is approved and constructed. The charity has been working with the airport owners and the Civil Aviation Authority to ensure uninterrupted service.
While some local residents expressed regret over the loss of the airport, with one commenting that 'part of our history will be lost again', the council and developers emphasise the economic benefits, including jobs and private investment for the region.
