Blackpool MP gives update on commercial flights from Blackpool Airport

Monday, 6 July 2026 13:26

By Richard Hunt

The Blackpool South MP says he is hopeful that opportunities can arrive in the future to revive the town’s airport – but that moment isn’t ready yet.

Chris Webb said he has met with various airlines representatives, including Jet2, to discuss possibilities of reviving the airport, but was told they do not see the situation as viable at the current time.

There is massive support in the town for the airport, off Squires Gate Lane, to revive public flights.

In the past, there have been regular routes to and from Belfast, Dublin and the Isle of Man, and even to northern Spain, just outside Barcelona.

But Blackpool Airport ceased major commercial passenger flights on October 15, 2014, when the facility was placed into administration.

This closure occurred because its then-owner, Balfour Beatty, decided to shut the airport after failing to find a buyer to resolve years of heavy financial losses.

The airport originally reopened two months later for smaller aircraft and helicopters, and briefly offered limited commercial flights to Belfast and the Isle of Man with the airline Citywing until that company liquidated in 2017.

Since then, the council-owned site has focused strictly on general aviation, pilot training, and offshore energy helicopter operations .

Mr Webb made it clear that things were not likely to happen currently when he stated to a member of Blackpool Airport Supporters Group: “I have spoken with all the airlines and they don’t have any interest in flying from Blackpool again.”

But the MP says he will still endeavour to push the case for the airport.

A London-based business man, who did not wish to be named at this stage, is hoping to launch a small-scale airline within two years and wants to offer flights to Blackpool.

He said: “To do that, Blackpool would have to offer better facilities, including a bigger passenger lounge and a better building.

“But it would certainly be viable, if handled correctly. Blackpool is one of the biggest tourism destinations in the UK, it is crying out for a properly-run airport.”