On December 6, 2024, Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA) marked a significant milestone as a 1977 Piper Panther PA31 Navajo aircraft landed on its runway, the first such event since its closure in November 2022. This development signals a promising step toward the airport’s anticipated reopening.
Closure and Its Implications
In November 2022, the Peel Group, owners of DSA, ceased operations, citing financial non-viability. This decision affected numerous businesses and employees, including 2Excel, an aviation and aerospace company that leased a hangar at the airport for over a decade. Following the closure, 2Excel relocated its fleet to various airports nationwide, though approximately 150 staff continued operations within their Doncaster hangar.
The Landmark Landing
The recent landing involved a 1977 Piper Panther PA31 Navajo, a twin-engine utility aircraft for search and rescue missions. This event was part of 2Excel’s winter maintenance program, authorized by the City of Doncaster Council. The aircraft’s arrival was conducted as an “unlicensed flight,” meaning it did not carry passengers or cargo. This procedure allows for the repositioning of aircraft under specific regulatory conditions.
Official Responses
Mayor Ros Jones of Doncaster expressed enthusiasm over the aircraft’s return, stating, “We know how important the airport is to local people and businesses, so it is great to see an already established aviation business in our city being able to use the site again.” She emphasized that this event represents a positive step toward the airport’s full reopening, projected for spring 2026.
Andy Offer, Director and Co-founder of 2Excel, highlighted the company’s resilience, noting, “It’s a testament to all at 2Excel that we absorbed the pain caused by the unexpected closure of Doncaster to aviation in November 2022.” He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to the Doncaster site. He expressed optimism about collaborating with the council and the new operator to restore the airport’s status as a major regional employer.
Path to Reopening
The City of Doncaster Council has been proactive in efforts to reopen DSA. In March 2024, the council signed a 125-year lease agreement with Peel Group, granting them control over the airport’s future operations. Subsequently, in November 2024, the council identified a successful bidder to operate the aviation business, aiming to resume passenger flights by spring 2026.
Mayor Jones reiterated the strategic importance of the airport, stating, “Their presence sends a signal to others about the importance of the site as a strategic base.” She assured that progress is ongoing and that further updates will be provided in early 2025.
Community and Economic Impact
The closure of DSA had significant economic repercussions for Doncaster and the broader South Yorkshire region. The airport’s reopening is anticipated to create approximately 5,000 jobs and catalyze regional economic growth. The return of 2Excel’s aircraft symbolizes the beginning of this revitalization, with several more flights expected in the coming months as part of the company’s winter planning.
Future Prospects
The return of aircraft to DSA signifies progress toward reopening and underscores the collaborative efforts between the council, aviation businesses, and the community. As the airport moves closer to resuming full operations, stakeholders remain committed to ensuring that DSA reestablishes itself as a vital hub for transportation and economic activity in the region.
