IT’S GOOD news for travellers in the north as a regional airport left abandoned for four years is set to reopen.
Doncaster Sheffield Airport closed back in 2022 after becoming “commercially unviable” and has been left empty since.
But now the airport is set to reopen to passengers in 2028 as part of a £193million project.
The airport is home to one of the longest runways in Europe, measuring 2,893 metres, which means it could host big jets for long-haul routes.
Before it closed, the regional airport acted as a gateway to Europe for those living in the north.
Airlines that used to fly from the airport included TUI and Wizz Air.
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However, no airlines have been confirmed for the airport yet.
Christian Foster, Director of FlyDoncaster – the company set up to manage the airport – told Sun Travel: “It does feel like the world has changed post-Covid, whereas people were focused two weeks in Spain or Greece, nowadays we’re seeing a lot of people keen to take city breaks.
“We’d love to fly to places like Croatia, and other destinations that are a bit more quirky like Azerbaijan.
“We’re keen to look at emerging places to visit as well, like India.“
Inside, there are plans to fill the airport terminal with local businesses instead of your usual Costa or Starbucks.
There would be a mixture of restaurants, bars and shops.
Back in July, the airport also gained approval was given by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to move forward with a public consultation.
During the public consultation, locals can express their opinions on the reopening of the airport before October 4.
In the airport’s latest update, three fire appliances have also been ordered for the airport ahead of its reopening next year and before welcoming passengers in 2028.