Blackpool Airport set to seek government help

An application for funding is expected to be made on behalf of the Squires Gate hub, which is owned by Blackpool Council.

Commercial airports and ground handlers will be eligible for up to £8m each, to support with fixed costs while travel restrictions remain in place.

The financial relief will help airports and ground handlers to cover losses on costs including airfield operations, contracted services such as airfield and runway maintenance, and business rate bills.

A spokesperson for Blackpool Airport said they would be examining the criteria and hoped to make an application.

The airfield has remained open throughout lockdown, but has seen a drop in income and flights.

The spokesperson added: “The past 12 months have been highly detrimental to general aviation, flying and training schools and executive travel use at the airport and revenue has been badly affected.

“However, Blackpool has faired better than some other regional airports as it has remained open, fully operational and Covid-safe throughout to maintain essential helicopter services to the off shore gas rigs and critical movement of medical and military supplies and repatriation.

“Airports such as Barton and Carlisle are closed and even Liverpool John Lennon Airport is only open for a few hours a day during the current lockdown.”

Transport Secretary, Grant Shapps said: “A thriving aviation industry has been central to the success of this country and while we recognise the testing conditions airports are currently facing as a result of the pandemic, I believe that the sector will be ready to bounce back once restrictions are lifted.”

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