South Yorkshire councils have approved nearly £160 million to reopen Doncaster Sheffield Airport, aiming to restart freight operations in 2027 and full passenger services by summer 2028.
The airport, located on the former RAF Finningley site, first opened in 2005 and closed in 2022 after Peel Group deemed it financially unviable. Previous operations included airlines such as Tui and Wizz Air, serving destinations across Europe, including the Canary Islands, Balearics, Greece, Turkey, Poland, and the Baltic states.
The funding comes through the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority and is expected to support up to 5,000 jobs while contributing approximately £5 billion to the regional economy, with broader benefits projected at £2 billion by 2050. Plans include establishing a sustainable aviation and advanced manufacturing hub.
Doncaster Council has created FlyDoncaster to operate the airport, with German firm Munich Airport International contracted to provide operational and management services. Stakeholders emphasise a measured approach to investment, avoiding unrestricted funding.
The project has faced scrutiny from local political groups, citing concerns over public financing and private-sector interest. Campaigners and regional leaders, however, highlight the potential economic benefits and improved connectivity for businesses and communities across South Yorkshire.
