Carlisle MP hoping for long-term airport takeover saga 'solution'

Hopes that Carlisle Airport could reopen this year have suffered a devastating blow after the collapse of Stobart Air - and confirmation that finance for the deal covering both the airline and the airport has collapsed.

John Stevenson MP has described his disappointment at the news of the double blow to the proposed sale Carlisle Airport this week.

Mr Stevenson stated: "I'm very disappointed firstly that the acquisition of the airport has not gone ahead. I feel that a new owner would have brought some new finance, energy and interest in the airport.

"This hasn't happened and clearly now Stobart Air are in difficulties. We'll have to wait and see what transpires but I'm optimistic that something new can happen at the airport.

The MP added that he still had faith that the airport will prove a success.

"We've got a new terminus and we've got a new run way. There are a lot of positives but it has been very difficult because of the pandemic.

"Everybody accepts that to make Carlisle Airport viable is challenging but nevertheless, it's impact on Carlisle and the wider region has the potential to be significant and, therefore, we have to do everything we can to ensure that it has a future."

He added that he hopes a solution can be found to secure the long-term future of the airport, with a new buyer or investment now required.

"Clearly there are risks to people who are both directly employed and there are risks in terms of the knock-on impact. That is why it is so important, if at all possible that we find a solution and ensure that Carlisle Airport does continue to function.

"We need to look to the company itself to find a solution- whether that's a buyer or a vehicle for the continuation of Carlisle Airport and I also think need to wait for the Government's review of regional airports to see what support that the Government might give to try and ensure that regional airports do stay in business."