Doncaster Sheffield Airport was closed in 2022 (Image: Getty)
An abandoned in the UK that was shut due to financial challenges and a lack of sustainable passenger demand is all set to be reopen in Spring 2026. Yorkshire’s Doncaster Sheffield Airport was closed in 2022 despite community campaigns and efforts to save the airport.
Opened in 2005, the airport was built on the site of the former RAF Finningley and became known for its ease of access, modern facilities, and to various domestic and European destinations.
The airport’s previous owners, Peel Group, had cited financial challenges as the reason for its closure. However, prospects for its revival appear promising, with a new operator identified.
Progress towards reopening Doncaster Sheffield Airport is already underway, marked by the arrival of its first flight in two years earlier this week.
Aviation company 2Excel, which has operated a hangar at the site for over a decade, was granted permission by the City of Doncaster Council to bring one of its aircraft back as part of a winter maintenance programme.
The aircraft landed at DSA on Friday morning during a controlled, unlicensed flight, witnessed by Mayor Ros Jones and local MPs, reports
This event signals the start of a series of flights expected in the coming months as 2Excel gradually returns its aircraft to Doncaster from other bases around the country.
Mayor Jones said: “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.
“I have made reopening our beloved airport my number one priority. We are still working steadfastly to reopen the airport by Spring 2026 and there will be further news forthcoming in early 2025. Progress is going well and further updates will be given in the New Year.”
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Since its closure, Mayor of Doncaster Ros Jones and her cabinet at City of Doncaster Council along with community activists from the Save DSA group have been pushing for ways to reopen the airport.
The airport is situated approximately 7 miles (11 km) east of Doncaster and 25 miles (40 km) southeast of Sheffield. It occupies the former site of RAF Finningley, a Royal Air Force station.
The airport is easily accessible by road via the M18 motorway, with ample parking facilities available for passengers.
It is also served by public transportation, including bus services connecting the airport to nearby towns and cities.