The Airports Commission has launched a consultation paper calling for evidence on the “connectivity and business models” of the UK’s existing airport capacity.
The call for evidence focuses on the domestic and international connectivity provided by regional airports and airports serving London and the south east, other than Heathrow and Gatwick.
The Commission wants recommendations on the role of regional airports and how the business models of these are developing and whether the connectivity provided can be enhanced.
“Regional airports and those in London and the south east other than Gatwick and Heathrow remain critical to the Commission’s analysis,” said Howard Davies, chairman of the Airports Commission.
“It is clear that in the future these airports will play a crucial national role, especially at a time when the major London airports are operating very close to capacity.”
The paper, Utilising the UK's Existing Airport Capacity, was welcomed by Flybe’s CEO Saad Hammad, who said it demonstrates how “vital” regional connectivity is to the airline industry as a whole.
“We pride ourselves on being the UK’s largest regional airline and offer routes from 35 airports across the UK, our regional bases connect nearly eight million passengers each year,” Hammad said.
The consultation closes on July 25.
The Airports Commission is currently considering the evidence put forward by Heathrow and Gatwick for expansion. The decision is due after next year’s general election.