Blackpool Airport issues statement on planes flying to and from destinations around the world

Blackpool Airport has highlighted its role as an international refuelling stop for aircraft amid continued calls for commercial passenger flights to return to the Fylde coast.

In a statement, the airport said it regularly provides fuel for planes travelling to and from destinations around the world, underlining the important aviation services it continues to offer despite no longer operating scheduled commercial flights.

"Did you know we act as a pit stop for refuelling for planes flying to and from destinations around the world?" the airport statement said. "Refuelling is available between 7:00 and 20:00 - 7 days a week and outside these times with advance notice."

The statement comes as interest continues to grow locally over the future of Blackpool Airport, with many residents keen to see scheduled passenger services restored more than a decade after they came to an end.

Earlier this month, Blackpool South MP Chris Webb provided an update after holding discussions with airlines about the possibility of bringing commercial flights back to the airport on Squires Gate Lane.

However, the MP said airline operators had shown "no interest in operating from Blackpool" at the present time, suggesting there is currently little appetite within the industry to launch scheduled services from the resort.

Despite that, a London-based businessman believes Blackpool could once again support commercial flights if investment is made in the airport's passenger facilities. The businessman, who did not wish to be named, said the airport would need a larger passenger lounge and improved terminal building before airlines could be attracted back.

He said: "To do that, Blackpool would have to offer better facilities, including a bigger passenger lounge and a better building. But it would certainly be viable, if handled correctly. Blackpool is one of the biggest tourism destinations in the UK, it is crying out for a properly-run airport."

Before scheduled passenger services ended, Blackpool Airport offered flights to destinations including Belfast, Dublin, the Isle of Man and northern Spain, close to Barcelona, providing important links for both business and leisure travellers.

Commercial passenger operations ceased on October 15, 2014, when the airport entered administration after its then owner, Balfour Beatty, was unable to find a buyer capable of reversing years of significant financial losses.

While the return of scheduled flights remains uncertain, the airport continues to play an active role in aviation by supporting aircraft from across the world with refuelling services, maintaining its place within the wider aviation network.