Manchester Airports Group (MAG) has advised the Airports Commission that well targeted policy support from Government would contribute significantly to making more effective use of existing capacity, enhancing airport competition and providing greater choice and international connectivity for consumers.
The proposals detail how MAG will make the best use of existing capacity in the next ten to fifteen years – the period before new runway capacity can be delivered.
MAG owns and operates four airports in the UK – Manchester, London Stansted, East Midlands and Bournemouth – and currently handles 42 million passengers per year.
Passenger numbers at Manchester Airport alone could soar from 19 million to 33 million a year if the government accepts the proposals aimed at unleashing its potential, while it will take more than 15 years to boost the number of runways in the congested south east.
The proposals include urging the Government to consider an overhaul of the controversial Air Passenger Duty, which is passed on to travellers through tickets prices. An APD “holiday” on new long haul flights, could Manchester Airport’s quest to attract direct flights to far flung destinations like China, India and parts of the US.
Charlie Cornish, Chief Executive of the Manchester Airports Group (MAG) pictured above said:
“The Airports Commission’s interim report provides an opportunity for the UK to make a firm statement about the future of economic growth in the country. We have watched other countries develop their aviation infrastructure for the benefit of their economies and we have the opportunity to do the same.
“With new runway capacity unlikely to be available for at least ten to fifteen years, it is critical that airports and Government do everything possible to make the best use of capacity that already exists. MAG airports have a big role to play in providing improved connectivity for the whole of the UK, and our submission outlines the steps the Government needs to take to help achieve this goal.”
The Best Use Submission was also submitted alongside MAG’s response on Climate Change to the Airports Commission. MAG has a strong environmental track-record and is committed to the responsible operation and development of the Group’s airports. It aims to make best use of natural resources and minimise the environmental impact of airport operations.