Doncaster-Sheffield Airport could reopen in 2026 as new operator bids to take over
A new potential operator has been found for the travel hub, which closed in 2022
South Yorkshire could get its airport back in 2026, after a new bidder was found to take over operations at Doncaster-Sheffield.
The site has been closed since 2022, with previous operator Peel Group saying the site was not financially viable.
However, its now emerged a bidder is in talks with Doncaster Council to take on the site.
A full business case has also been produced for the reopening, to be presented before a meeting of South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority next week.
Authorities could then agree to release £3m in funding to bring the site back into use, with up to £138m to follow if a deal is done.
The plan would not just see the airport reopen, but also a 10 year plan set out to deliver 5,000 jobs across the Doncaster district.
Commercial flights could take off as soon as Spring 2026.
South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard said: “As I have from the beginning of this process, I remain fully committed to reopening the airport.
“That’s why I and the MCA Board have authorised the release of up to £138m in support of that plan, subject to the right deal being struck with the right operator, so we can get South Yorkshire’s airport back.
“With that level of investment, and with a deal that is this significant to the whole of South Yorkshire, I am also determined to ensure we progress earnestly ensuring we build on the foundations of a leading regional economic asset. .
“We will give City of Doncaster Council the financial firepower they need while continuing to work at pace to secure the future of DSA, at the same time as making sure we do everything we can to protect taxpayers’ money, and giving the new operator every chance to establish a leading regional airport here in Doncaster.”