Aviation Expansion in the North East

The aviation sector claims to be essential to the region's economy and jobs.

But our research (PDF†) shows that the North East suffers a huge economic deficit due to aviation. In 2004:

• the loss was £761 million.
• By 2020, this deficit could rise to £1.5bn per year if airport expansion continues.

Yet the Government and the North East assembly are encouraging airport expansion in the region.

Newcastle Airport

Newcastle airport is the largest airport in the North East. About 4 million passengers pass through it every year.

The Government has approved an expansion to the terminal facilities and runway.This will mean that passenger numbers will grow to:

• At least 10 million a year by 2030.
• But growth is so rapid that this number will be reached by 2016.

A similar expansion is expected at Durham Tees Valley Airport.

Take action

Support the airport pledge against airport expansion

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