What’s Next for Doncaster Sheffield Airport? South Yorkshire Hails New Operator Appointment

The future of Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA) is looking up after a major development that will change this important travel hub forever. After a long and hard campaign, an operator has been appointed to run the airport, with the aim of reopening it.

The three South Yorkshire Chambers of Commerce are delighted with this outcome and see it as a massive win not just for Doncaster but for the whole of South Yorkshire. Here’s why it matters and what it means for the people and businesses of South Yorkshire.

A new beginning for Doncaster Sheffield Airport

Last night City of Doncaster Council (CDC) made the big announcement: a buyer for the airport has been chosen and the long fight for DSA’s return is one step closer to being over. The name of the new operator is still under wraps as negotiations are finalised but the excitement is building. And if everything goes to plan DSA could see flights taking off by Spring 2026.

The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) is now considering releasing £3m from a £138m fund to support the negotiations.

Why an airport in Doncaster is important for South Yorkshire

For Dan Fell, Chief Executive of Doncaster Chamber, reopening the airport would be a game-changer. He says airports and economies go together so DSA’s return would be a big deal for South Yorkshire.

“It’s obvious this is great news for Doncaster and the whole region. Economies need airports to succeed and DSA’s return is a big deal for South Yorkshire. He also welcomed the joint approach, “City of Doncaster Council and SYMCA have been brave and bold.”

Local business and global links

Louisa Harrison-Walker, Chief Executive of Sheffield Chamber, agreed with Fell, highlighting the broader benefits an operational DSA would bring.

She said:

“The news we’re finally getting an airport back in South Yorkshire is great for Sheffield businesses. We’re an international city with industry leading companies and two world class universities. They will all benefit from the global connections this airport will provide.”

Unlocked potential and jobs

Carrie Sudbury, Chief Executive of Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber, said before it closed DSA had massive potential. An economic impact study showed a fully operational DSA would bring in £1.56 billion over the next 30 years and thousands of jobs across South Yorkshire.

Sudbury said:

“At the time of its initial closure DSA had huge potential and we can’t wait to see how the region will make the most of all these opportunities when the airport finally reopens in its new and improved form.”

What’s to come?

As the negotiations conclude, there’s excitement about how DSA will help drive South Yorkshire’s growth, as a regional airport and a jobs and business generator.