Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA) has taken a significant step towards reopening as a three-month consultation period begins this week. Residents, stakeholders, and business owners will have the chance to ask questions, raise concerns, and share their opinions on the proposed plans.
Background and closure
The airport, once a major aviation hub in South Yorkshire flying to 50 destinations in Europe, closed four years ago after its owners at the time, Peel Group, said it was no longer financially viable to keep it open.
Key developments this year
The consultation follows crucial developments earlier this year. In April, a large jet landed at DSA for the first time since closure, marking the start of ambitious plans to bring the site back into operation. Staff celebrated the arrival, which is kept on constant standby as a response aircraft to oil spills around the world, calling it an 'amazing moment' for aviation and the community.
Christian Foster, director of airport operator FlyDoncaster Ltd, said: 'It's quite a moment seeing a jet land at the airport for the first time in almost four years.'
In mid-May, Doncaster Council approved a £57 million loan to help kickstart the project, a surprising turn given that Labour and Reform UK councillors had been at odds over the matter for months.
Reacting to the news, #SaveDSA campaigner Mark Chadwick told 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 connectivity benefits
Tourism expert Christian Petzold previously told Metro that the DSA project is an important step towards international connections for South Yorkshire. He said: '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 would be reduced from over 90 minutes down to approximately 30-40 minutes, he added.
Consultation details
Airport bosses have described the consultation phase as 'crucial', emphasising that they want to hear from as many people as possible. Besides delivering leaflets to nearby households, the airport plans to host webinars and in-person events.
