SOUTHEND AIRPORT (which likes to call itself London Southend Airport) has published a master plan which envisages the opening up of flights to a range of European cities. Over the next two months the airport will be discussing the project with a wide range of interested parties prior to a firm commitment. The airport has already gained approval for a new terminal building and station adjacent to the main Southend ” London railway line which forms a boundary. Work is expected to start before the end of the year with a target for the 2007 summer season. Planning permission has also been sought for a Parkway facility. The plan calls for a modest growth to one million passengers in ten years” time. With a current runway length of 1610m the airport is suitable for 737/A320 size aircraft operations but it is anticipated that the majority of services will be operated by Bombardier Dash 400 size turboprops, typified by FlyBe who will offer a Jersey service this summer. The airport is part of the Regional Airports Group which also owns Biggin Hill.
http://www.southendairport.net