The chief executive of Manston airport, Charles Buchanan has indicated that the airport is likely to close by 9th April this year. The news has come as a surprise to many including the staff who were not aware of the plans to close the airport. It is reported that on Wednesday, the staff were told that a 45 day consultation was under way over the airports future due to its loss making.
“This is quite disturbing for us as the government” Robert Goodwill the aviation minister was quoted as having described the fore coming closure of the airport.
Mr. Buchanan has indicated that the situation has risen due to increased operational losses incurred by the airport. He also indicated that the airport had failed to develop a reliable plan to ensure it’s profitable in the medium term and this was another reason for its proposed closure.
A petition against the closure has already been signed by over 5000 people who are against the management’s decision. The petitioners argue that closing the airport would lead to loss of jobs for hundreds of employees working at the airport and are now calling on the government to take other measures to avoid possible closure.
Sir Roger said that the airfield, being a national asset should be kept open.
A task force has been put in place to help support all the employees affected and to evaluate the impact of the closure. The estimated number of employees to be affected is over one hundred and forty four.
“It is quite disappointing that Mantson has not been able to attract some of the low cost carries the way we were hoping” Mr. Goodwill said.
This is a devastating blow to the community which is served by the airport.
By Oliver Derek