More discussions on the expansion of Exeter Aiport

11:30am Tuesday 19th August 2008

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COUNCILLORS have looked in detail at Exeter International Airport’s draft master plan.

Regional and City Airports, the owners of Exeter International Airport, and Flybe, presented Devon County Council’s Environment, Economy and Culture Scrutiny Committee with an overview of the document.

The committee discussed the plan with Clive Coleman from the airport owners Regional and City Airports, and Andrew Strong, Chief Operating Officer for Flybe.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Chairman of the Environment, Economy and Culture Scrutiny Committee, said: “It was a positive meeting and we welcomed the opportunity to have some input into the consultation of the draft master plan while asking searching questions. The airport is vital to the local economy so it’s important that it’s a good neighbour and engages with the local community to get local people on board. One of the biggest concerns is the night flight issue and we hope there will be a recommendation for a limit on those flights.”

Clive Coleman, Commercial and Development Director for Regional and City Airports, said: “Exeter Airport is the principle gateway to Devon and Cornwall and our objectives are to improve affordable access while making sure they are sustainable.”

Exeter International Airport forecasts that passenger figures will increase from just over one million in 2007, to 1.9 million by 2015 and 3.375 million by 2030.

It has also set itself a target of achieving carbon neutrality in its ground operations by 2015.

The direct number of jobs at Exeter International Airport is expected to rise from 1,400 to around 3,500 by 2030.

Public consultation is underway on the draft until September 30.