- The Conservative Government’s multimillion-pound support scheme for airports has now opened – with Carlisle Airport set to potentially receive up to £8 million this year.
- The scheme reflects the aviation sector’s valuable contribution to the UK economy, and will help to ease pressure on airports hit by the pandemic.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has announced that Carlisle Airport is now able to apply for a Government grant worth up to £8 million, helping to protect jobs and the local economy in Penrith and The Border.
The Airport and Ground Operators Support Scheme, which opened on Friday 29 January, will help Carlisle Airport, and other commercial airports across England to cover losses on costs caused by the covid-19 pandemic, including airfield operations, contracted services such as airfield and runway maintenance, and business rate bills.
Airports and ground handlers can apply to the scheme on GOV.UK, and if successful, should receive their funding by the end of the financial year.
The financial support scheme, which follows the Government’s extension of the Job Retention Scheme, is open for applications until 21 February 2021.
This investment will help support Carlisle Airport following the introduction of international travel restrictions designed to protect public health and prevent the spread of Covid-19 as the Government continues to roll out its world leading vaccination programme.
Commenting, Dr Neil Hudson MP said:
“I am thrilled that Carlisle Airport has the potential to receive up to £8 million to help it protect jobs during these challenging times.
“I hope that this funding application marks a turning point for the airport – which is so important for our community and wider region.
“I will continue to work with stakeholders, colleagues and Government to support a viable future for our airport which has been hit so hard by this pandemic.”
Commenting, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said:
“A thriving aviation industry has been central to the success of this country and while we recognise the testing conditions airports are currently facing as a result of the pandemic, I believe that the sector will be ready to bounce back once restrictions are lifted.
“Today’s scheme is another step in the right direction, providing vital support for an industry that is raring to get back to business, once it is safe to do so.”
