Yorkshire air travel flying high with a government boost
TWO routes from Yorkshire airports have entered the latest round of connectivity funding from the government.
The Regional Air Connectivity Fund will provide cash for a shortlist of international and domestic air routes for smaller airports, that handle fewer than 5m passengers a year.
Flights to Newquay from Leeds Bradford Airport, daily returns in summer and three daily returns in winter, run by Flybe have been included in this round.
A Doncaster Sheffield Airport to Frankfurt route has also been included, which would be operated by BMI Regional.
Airports that have reached this stage serve the Northern Powerhouse, Scotland and Northern Ireland. If the routes pass further rounds, funding will provide support for approved routes for three years.
Chancellor George Osborne said: “We’re determined to build a one nation economy, where all parts of the UK are growing and connected. That’s why we support new regional air routes.
“Further funding for brand new routes will support many more businesses and individuals across UK regions as part of our rural productivity plan.”
Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin said: “The shortlist we are publishing today shows the potential for smaller airports to create jobs and drive growth.
To be successful bidders, the operators of these routes will need to prove they will be commercially viable after that time. The proposed links will also be assessed for providing maximum value for money for the taxpayer.
Launched in June 2013,the Regional Air Connectivity Fund has already supported routes from Dundee and Newquay into London. The fund has been expanded to include new international and domestic air routes. Final bid announcements will be made in November 2015.
