Union slams decision to close Blackpool Airport
Union leaders have called on the owners of Blackpool Airport to reconsider their decision to shut the airport next week with the loss of up to 120 jobs.
United regional officer Dave Kennedy said the union was ‘shocked and very disappointed’ at the news announced yesterday.
"We can’t believe Blackpool Airport’s hasty decision to shut the airport next week," he said. "We urge Blackpool airport bosses to seriously rethink the planned closure."
Kennedy said the closure would have a huge impact on local communities and come as a major blow to the town, which is already struggling with high unemployment and a shortage of skilled or well-paid work.
Blackpool airport’s closure next week will damage the wider northwest economy at a time when the Uk is crying out for investment in airport infrastructure, said ABTA.
The airport confirmed in a statement yesterday that it will cease operations on October 15.
Passengers due to fly from the airport after next Wednesday are being advised to contact their airlines, Jet2, Aer Lingus Regional and Citywing.
ABTA said: "The announcement today that Blackpool airport will be closing as of 15th October will understandably cause concern for passengers due to use the airport after that date; however airlines and tour operators will be in contact with passengers to offer replacement flight options.
"This loss of a local airport will have a very damaging impact on the local economy in Blackpool with the loss of many ancillary services, and on the wider north west economy.
"ABTA’s consumer surveys have repeatedly found that people prefer to fly from a local option when one is available, and the UK is crying out for investment in airport infrastructure. The Government does not help the situation in maintaining the current level of sky-high aviation taxes, which are destructive of long term economic value."
Blackpool’s owner Balfour Beatty said the airport had been losing money for a number of years. "Unfortunately there is no option for the company other than to close," it said in a statement released yesterday after attempts to find a buyer failed.
"This is a very sad day for the airport which has a proud aviation history and a loyal, appreciative customer following," it said. "We would like to thank all our dedicated staff who have delivered exceptional service to passengers for many years."
The airport said work is currently underway with the independent aviation businesses and tenants at the airport to understand if their operations can continue in the future.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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