Doncaster Sheffield Airport, which opened its doors in April 2005, has long been a crucial part of the region's aviation landscape. Once a bustling hub for international travel, it provided flights to destinations including Berlin, Dubrovnik, Paris, Alicante, and Mallorca. However, financial viability issues led to its closure in November 2022, leaving many to question its future as the airport now competes with the rapidly growing Leeds Bradford Airport nearby.
Despite these challenges, Doncaster Council remains optimistic about the airport's potential reopening in spring 2026. They project that if the airport reopens, it could become profitable within five years. The council estimates that the facility could create almost 5,000 direct jobs and up to 11,500 jobs in the wider economy. Furthermore, they predict a net economic benefit of up to £1.5 billion within the first three decades of operation.
The closure of Doncaster Sheffield Airport has raised concerns among local leaders and residents. With more than £100 million in public funding needed for its revival, questions persist about whether the investment will pay off. Michael O'Leary, CEO of Ryanair, expressed skepticism regarding the airport's viability during a recent statement. He highlighted the proximity of Leeds Bradford Airport and noted that Doncaster faces significant competition.
"We used to fly to Doncaster, but there isn't much of a traffic base there." – Michael O'Leary
O'Leary further elaborated on the challenges Doncaster faces in attracting passengers and airlines.
"It's close to Leeds Bradford and Leeds has grown rapidly with us and Jet2 in the last five or six years." – Michael O'Leary
"I think it's a very tough sell in the shadow of Leeds Bradford." – Michael O'Leary
However, local leaders believe that reopening the airport could enhance regional connectivity and boost local tourism. Dan Fell, a prominent figure in the community, argued that airports play a vital role in attracting businesses and families to an area.
"Airports do tend to be quite high on the list of things people are looking for when making their decisions about where in the UK they move to." – Dan Fell
He also pointed out that Sheffield is one of the only core cities in the UK without an airport within an hour's reach.
"Sheffield is one of the only core cities in the UK that hasn't got an airport within an hour's reach." – Dan Fell
Fell's comments reflect a broader sentiment among advocates for the airport's reopening. They believe that it presents an opportunity for economic growth and increased tourism.
"Airports can also help boost local tourism," – Dan Fell
While optimism remains, not all voices are in favor of reopening the airport. Christine Gilligan Kubo has raised concerns about environmental impacts associated with increased flights. She argues that expanding air travel could hinder the region's carbon reduction goals.
"Reopening DSA with all its additional flights will only make achieving our carbon targets more difficult," – Christine Gilligan Kubo
Despite mixed opinions, local leaders continue to advocate for the airport's revival. The backing of Chancellor Rachel Reeves further solidifies support for this initiative. Her endorsement signals recognition of the economic significance associated with restoring operations at Doncaster Sheffield Airport.
The need for over £100 million in public funding raises questions about how this money will be sourced and whether taxpayers will ultimately bear the burden of this investment. The airport's owner, Peel Group, mothballed the site in November 2022 but remains open to discussions about its future.
As plans progress toward reopening, Doncaster Sheffield Airport is poised to become a focal point for regional development. The commitment towards sustainable aviation aligns with broader environmental goals while providing opportunities for economic advancement.