Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA), once a bustling hub in South Yorkshire, is poised for a significant revival. After its closure in 2022, plans are now underway to reopen the airport by spring 2026, with ambitions to host flights from five different airlines. This development promises to rejuvenate regional connectivity and stimulate economic growth.
A Brief History of Doncaster Sheffield Airport
Established in 2005 on the former RAF Finningley airbase, DSA quickly became a vital gateway for travellers in the North of England. At its peak, the airport offered flights to nearly 50 destinations, serving approximately 1.25 million passengers in 2016. However, financial challenges and the withdrawal of key carriers led to its closure in November 2022.
The Path to Reopening
Concerted efforts from local authorities and stakeholders have marked the journey to revitalise DSA. In March 2024, the City of Doncaster Council secured a 125-year lease for the airport site, demonstrating a long-term commitment to its future. By November 2024, the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority allocated £3 million to support reinstatement activities and facilitate commercial negotiations.
A significant milestone was achieved in February 2025 when Munich Airport International (MAI) was appointed to provide operational and management services for DSA. MAI’s Managing Director, Lorenzo di Loreto, expressed pride in contributing to the airport’s reopening, aiming to develop DSA into a competitive and passenger-friendly facility.
Attracting Multiple Airlines
A key aspect of the reopening strategy is diversifying airline partnerships. Christian Foster, the council’s programme director and a director of FlyDoncaster, emphasised the importance of this approach: “Having a strategy where you only have an airport with one airline doesn’t work for Doncaster. Hence, we want a minimum of four to five, and that’s where we are working at.” Discussions with potential carriers have been ongoing for over a year, with TUI already expressing interest in resuming operations at DSA.
Enhancing Freight Operations
Beyond passenger services, there is a strong focus on expanding freight capabilities. The airport aims to quadruple its freight traffic, capitalising on congestion at other UK airports. Deborah Hogg, executive director of corporate resources for the council and a director of FlyDoncaster, highlighted this opportunity: “Because there is so much congestion elsewhere in particular relation to freight … .”
Community and Economic Impact
The reopening of DSA is anticipated to impact the local community and economy profoundly. Residents have expressed enthusiasm about the airport’s return, citing benefits such as reduced travel times and job creation. The project is set to be the most significant single investment in Doncaster in over a generation, with Mayor Ros Jones stating, “Reopening our airport is my number one priority.”
