Blackpool airport names new manager

Blackpool Airport has a new hand at the helm as the owners have appointed a full time manager.
Jay Gates, the new airport manager for Blackpool AirportJay Gates, the new airport manager for Blackpool Airport
Jay Gates, the new airport manager for Blackpool Airport

Jay Gates has taken over from interim airport manager Chris Formby following a handover period.

As the aerodrome licence holder, he will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the aerodrome including air traffic control, airport fire service, security, airfield operations and engineering.

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With over 25 years’ experience in aviation, his career includes roles as airfield operations manager at Humberside Airport, airport manager for Airports Company South Africa and most recently head of operations, safety and compliance at Coventry Airport.

He said: “I look forward to working with Balfour Beatty, the airport owner, to help create a sustainable future for the airport. We will support the drive for further investment in the area, enhanced by the airport’s new Enterprise Zone status, to support local communities and help the airport achieve its full potential.”

Danny Nicholson, from the Save Blackpool Airport group which wants to see the return of commercial holiday flights, said he welcomed the appointment and hoped that Mr Gates would able to help the airport develop.

He said: “It would be great if Blackpool could bring in Thompson Fly or Flybe to Squires Gate. We think they should be looking to expand commercial services here, to Europe – Belgium, Amsterdam and Spain which we believe would be well used.” ”We would also be keen to see plans for the replacement for the international terminal.”