Aviation minister turns attention to Blackpool Airport

The reopening of Blackpool Airport is a top priority of my constituents. Last week I had the chance to welcome Aviation Minister Mike Kane to Blackpool Airport to discuss this – something I’ve been pushing for since the day I was elected.

I stood up in Parliament back in January and called for more support for our airport – Mike responded first with a meeting, in which he offered to connect me with airlines to discuss the return of commercial flights here, and then with a visit.

The Minister witnessed an airport full of potential. Not just to bring back commercial flights, but to become a real engine for local jobs, skills and innovation.

Mike spoke positively about the AI projects, the green energy developments, the aviation training work already happening here on our doorstep. He called Blackpool Airport a “great operation,” and he’s right. It’s already the 20th largest airport in the UK and the top general aviation site in the country. But he also pointed out that with 144 acres to work with, and the right investment, we can take this place to new heights.

This is about giving Blackpool a proper shot at long-term growth. It’s about decent jobs for local people and creating new opportunities for our young people.

I promised during the election that I’d bring the Aviation Minister here – and I did. Now I’m working to turn those conversations into action. That means linking up with airlines, pushing for funding and making sure that Blackpool doesn’t get left behind again.

Blackpool Airport is ready to take off – and with it, so is our town.