In supporting efforts to open the site as a civil airport, the GAAC also encourages the inspector to consider the needs of GA in the area. The concerns relate to a shortage of GA facilities, particularly after the closure of Doncaster Airport by the local council 10 years ago. It states that nearby Humberside already claims it is unable to cope with demand for flying training due to the growth of commercial traffic.

Also of concern to GA is the need for more controlled airspace which will inevitably result in a successful commercial operation at Finningley. Adjacent airspace users will suffer severely if controlled airspace requirements exceed the restrictions in place during the time that Finningley was an operational RAF station. Such requirements must therefore be planned in conjunction with other airspace users in the area. Past experience has shown that airspace concerns are a material planning consideration and failure to raise this issue at this early stage will make it more difficult to state the case for GA when controlled airspace is introduced.

Individual statements of support for GA, quoting reference APP/F4410/V/01/000266 can be submitted to...

Ms Marcia Dean
The Planning Inspectorate
Room 3/17 Eagle Wing
Temple Quay House
2 The Square
Temple Quay
Bristol
BS1 6PN