Doncaster Sheffield Airport cleared for airspace consultation

A public consultation into reinstating airspace around Doncaster Sheffield Airport has been described as a “crucial” step in the process to reopen the site.

The Civil Aviation Authority has given the go-ahead to proceed with the process.

The consultation around the Airspace Change Proposal (ACP) will seek the views of residents and stakeholders between August 3 and October 4.

The airport hopes to reopen freight flights next year and passengers in 2028 after closing in 2022.

The consultation is a regulatory requirement that must be met in order for the airport to have control of the airspace around the site.

It comes as the airport builds a team of air traffic controllers with a recruitment drive for seven new staff to join more than 20 already in place. 

Christian Foster, director for FlyDoncaster, operator of the airport, said: “A reopening project of this scale includes a number of important milestones, but being able to go out to public consultation around our airspace is one that is absolutely crucial. 

“We want to hear the views of people from across Doncaster and beyond, so that they can have a meaningful say about the airspace connected to this airport. 

“As a community asset, it’s vital that we engage with those who live and work nearby to us and ensure we listen to the views of local people.”

He added: “Reaching another milestone in this process allows us to accelerate the good work that has already been done to engage with airlines and operators, helping to ensure that we can reopen the airport in a safe and successful manner. 

“We continue to build an expert team to help us do that and we look forward to hearing the views expressed during the consultation.”