Bosses urged to look into Blackpool Airport starting flights again

Members of the Conservative group on Blackpool Council pledged their support for the return of flights to Belfast, Dublin and the Isle of Man during a visit and tour of the council owned airport on Squires Gate Lane.

Conservative group leader Coun Paul Galley said: “Since Blackpool lost its direct flights to the Isle of Man, Belfast and Dublin, we have seen a big reduction of visitors from those places.

“I’m really keen to see those routes restored as soon as possible. For regional flight requirements, most of the infrastructure is in place and with some investment in a new arrival and departure area we should make that vision a reality.”

Deputy Conservative group leader Coun Michele Scott said: “The business case for any regional airline is to attract as many people on a return flight as those that fly out ,and we know many of Blackpool’s and Lancashire’s residents would use the airport to fly to Belfast, Dublin and Douglas ensures it has strong business case. “

During their tour the group was shown investment in the fire safety facilities as well as the air traffic control tower and the the work of other operators including Westair.

Coun Jason Roberts, none executive director at the airport, said “The importance of the operators at Blackpool Airport including our flying school, off shore helicopter operator and our corporate jet handler, Hanger Three, have been key in ensuring that jobs have been retained and increased in recent years.

“This has ensured our airport has been kept very firmly on the map as a destination and departure point. Future plans will ensure steady sustainable growth and help to retain this strategic asset for the town, for many years to come.”

Airport managing director Steve Peters said scheduled domestic flights linking Blackpool to the Isle of Man, Belfast and other regional airports were part of future ambitions for the terminal when he unveiled its 10 year action plan last year.

The plan also includes expanding the lucrative private jet market, promoting specialist charter flights, pilot training and attracting repair and overhaul services.