Airport reopening plans take a step forward

The plan to reopen Doncaster Sheffield Airport has taken a step forward with operator Fly Doncaster launching a search for on-site airport operational partners.

The airport is looking for a Fixed Base Operator (FBO) which would be a permanent presence at the airport to carry out functions for private jets, medical aircraft and private pilots.

This latest step means private domestic flights could return to the airport before the end of the year.

Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA) has been closed since 2022 when former owner and operator Peel Group said it was no longer financially viable.

FBO services would provide the support required for business and private aviation, including aircraft handling, fuelling, and parking, as well as support for passengers and crews.

FlyDoncaster said it expected the procurement process to conclude in May.

"As we work towards re-opening Doncaster Sheffield Airport, our focus is firmly on building a safe, efficient and operationally robust airport that is ready to serve a broad range of users from day one," Simon Hinchley, Executive Director for Airport Operations at FlyDoncaster, said.

A report, prepared for City of Doncaster Council's cabinet, in October 2025 revealed the cost of reopening the airport had risen to £193m.

The reopened airport terminal will have the capacity for up to four million passengers and 40,000 air movements per year and could generate up to £5bn for the regional economy by 2050, according to Fly Doncaster.

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