Airport News
Below are news items relating to specific airports
Government plans to steamroller Stansted runway Inquiry
Plans to steamroller through the Public Inquiry into BAA’s application for a second Stansted runway in just six months have been condemned by Stop Stansted Expansion (SSE). The intention is to run parallel sessions examining different subjects in different Inquiry rooms at the same time. This 'twin track' approach would severely compromise the community’s ability to participate fully in the Inquiry because it would stretch resources beyond the limit. (SSE)
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Stansted inquiry to be rushed through to foil runway critics
The public inquiry into a second runway at Stansted is to be completed in record time in an attempt by the Government to prevent the Conservatives cancelling the project if they win the next general election. For the first time, a significant planning inquiry will be heard in two separate rooms at the same time. Opponents say that their arguments will not be heard properly because they can afford just one barrister, while BAA have five. (Times)
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New business aviation centre for Norwich airport
Norwich International Airport is set to expand after Norfolk-based aviation firm SaxonAir announced that it will construct a £1 million business aviation centre, a facility that will benefit passengers and airline crew. The company will also invest in the construction of a new hangar for the airport, which currently serves cheap flights carriers Flybe and Thomsonfly.(Skyscanner)
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Prestwick Airport sets out draft master plan
Glasgow Prestwick Airport has published its draft master plan. This sets out plans to cope with a doubling of the number of passengers using the airport in the next decade, equipping it to handle 5.7m passengers in 2018 rising to approximately 12m in 2033. It expects there will be a need to upgrade the existing apron and taxiway facilities as the number of flights increases, but the current runway infrastructure will be sufficient. (Transport Briefing)
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Labour MPs oppose Heathrow runway (105 have signed EDM 2344 by 31st Oct)
A growing number of Labour MPs have urged ministers to rethink their plans for a 3rd runway at Heathrow. MPs from all parties have signed a Commons motion urging the government to look at "alternative solutions" to take into account noise and air pollution. The Tories and Lib Dems oppose a 3rd runway but 28 Labour MPs are among the 78 who have signed the motion (95 have now) (BBC)
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Doncaster airport master plan launched
Doncaster airport's owner, Peel, has published its draft master plan. The plan shows growth in passenger numbers, cargo handling and business activity at the former RAF site. According to the 250-page document, 18,300 positions - both direct and indirect jobs - could be created in just over 20 years. Peel want to increase passenger numbers tenfold by 2030 - by extending the current terminal and improving public transport, and increase freight. (Doncaster Today)
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Heathrow: MPs plot revolt against third runway
Plans for a 3rd runway at Heathrow were threatened by a Cabinet revolt. Ministers were said to be secretly fuelling a Commons rebellion against expansion of the airport. Dozens of MPs were joining a campaign to scupper the proposed runway amid doubts over whether it would be needed if aviation traffic is reduced in a global economic slowdown. From 19 votes for EDM 2344 - by John Grogan - yesterday, the figure is now 78 this evening. (Evening Standard)
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Heathrow plan attacked by Chris Smith – Chairman of the EA
Amid growing rumours of a Cabinet split over Heathrow expansion ex-culture secretary turned Environment Agency chief Chris Smith criticises plans to defer new pollution limits. The former Labour cabinet minister has weighed into the row over controversial Heathrow plans, criticising the government for trying to delay new pollution rules. Smith’s comments come as it emerges that senior minsters, including Benn, are opposed to Heathrow expansion. (New Statesman)
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Passenger jets 10 seconds from collision at Heathrow
Two passenger jets came within a few seconds of disaster at Heathrow when one tried to land before the other had cleared the runway. A Lufthansa Airbus A321 carrying 168 passengers was coming in at 120mph on Friday evening and was just 10 seconds from touchdown when air traffic controllers realised it was on a collision course with another plane that had just landed and not yet left the runway. NATS said aborted landings were common. (Mail)
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BA’s last international flight from Manchester Airport tomorrow
BA is to fly its last direct international flight from Manchester Airport tomorrow after scrapping services to New York, as it was not profitable. BA will not fly any direct international routes from any UK regional airport, with traffic instead being directed through its Gatwick and Heathrow hubs. The 10am flight from Manchester will mark the end of an era when BA flew regular international flights from regional hubs, including Manchester. (Crains)