Flybe collapse could close Southampton and Belfast airports, says MP

Sign up to Simon Calder’s free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calder’s Travel email Get Simon Calder’s Travel email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Any Questions?, the MP for Bournemouth East said: “If Southampton airport were to close because this airline went bust, or indeed Belfast City airport, these are changes which are very difficult to then reverse if they happened.” The pair have the highest proportion of Flybe operations among UK airports. “That would be very, very damaging indeed.” A spokesman for the Hampshire airport said: “Although there would be significant and potentially ongoing disruption, Southampton airport wouldn’t close without Flybe. ”Just recently we submitted our planning application to extend our runway by 164 metres, within our own perimeter, which will enable us to further improve the choice and connectivity we offer as one of the UK’s most important regional airports.” Belfast City airport’s spokesperson said: “There is, and will continue to be, a significant demand for the popular destinations we serve. A Department for Transport spokesperson said: “The DfT is undertaking an urgent review into how we can level up the country by supporting regional air connectivity and will look at all the options to make sure our airports can continue to play an important role in driving economic growth, creating jobs and making aviation greener than ever.” The Southampton airport spokesperson said: ”It is crucial that regional aviation is given the support to continue to serve the country’s needs, and this requires both a progressive taxation framework and ongoing policy support for airport growth.” Belfast City’s spokesperson said: “We welcome the arrival of Virgin Connect later this year and are confident the airline will provide a long-term, sustainable network to and from Northern Ireland.” Environmentalists have reacted furiously to the prospect of a tax cut.