Coventry Airport has closed for good today after more than 90 years of operation, including its time as an RAF fighter station during World War II. The West Midlands airport, once a hub for budget carrier Wizz Air, ceased operations on Thursday, June 11, 2026.
Final Commercial Flight
Pop supergroup Take That became the last commercial passengers to land at the airport last week, marking the end of nearly nine decades of aviation history. The airport opened as Baginton Aerodrome in 1936 and served as an RAF fighter station during the war. In later years, it was primarily used for private business jets, pilot training, and the Air Ambulance Service.
GreenPower Park Development
The airport site will be transformed into GreenPower Park, a £2.5 billion battery and clean energy scheme expected to create up to 6,000 jobs. The West Midlands Combined Authority predicts the project will generate more than 30,000 jobs and attract up to £5.5 billion in private investment.
Reactions and Controversy
While the council hails the economic boost, some locals express disappointment. Isabella Boneham commented on X: "I think Coventry Airport closing is a real shame — not only for the city and its history, but for travel in the West Midlands. It could have been a commercial airport again in the future with domestic and European flights. Who wants a battery gigafactory?"
Infrastructure Upgrades
GreenPower Park stated that decommissioning runway operations "paved the way" for seven manufacturing facilities and a new electrical substation powered exclusively by renewable resources. Mike Murray, project director, said: "The closure of the airport is a major milestone as we transition the site to a major manufacturing hub, with the potential to generate around 6,000 jobs."
