Doncaster Sheffield Airport Plans Reopening After £160m Funding Boost

Doncaster Sheffield Airport, closed since 2022 due to financial unviability under its previous owners, is set to reopen with a £160 million funding package approved by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority. The airport is expected to resume freight flights by summer 2026, while passenger flights may be available for booking by late 2026 with operations beginning in winter 2027/28, though full passenger service could be delayed until 2028. The airport will transition from private to public ownership, with significant preparations underway including airspace redesign and infrastructure restoration. Local leaders, including Doncaster Mayor Ros Jones and South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard, have hailed the funding as a major milestone for the regional economy and community. However, opposition councillors from Reform UK and Conservative parties have called for rigorous public scrutiny and transparency concerning the use of taxpayer funds, emphasizing the need for detailed oversight before the reopening proceeds. Despite these concerns, the unanimous vote by regional leaders underscores strong political support for reviving the airport as a catalyst for jobs and growth.