Good news, UK holidaymakers: we might be getting a new airport that offers budget flights to major European destinations. Kent’s Manston Airport closed in 2014 after suffering huge losses, but could soon reopen with cheap flights to Spain, Cyprus and other Mediterranean hotspots.
The airport, which was formerly known as RAF Manston, was first used during World War I and later WWII due to its location close to the Channel. Since then, it’s become a filming location, most recently starring in Sam Mendes’s blockbuster Empire of Light.
If the reopening goes ahead, RiverOak Strategic Partners (RSP), which owns the airport, has its work cut out. It will cost the company £500 million to reopen due to required infrastructure changes including more runways, terminals and roads to accommodate increased traffic.
On the plus side, the expansion could allow Manston to offer in-demand morning slots which are already booked up at airports such as Stansted and Gatwick. That essentially means there will be loads more options available to flyers at convenient times.
But don’t hold your breath: the airport won’t be opening its doors any time soon. With all the work that needs to be done, you won’t be heading to the Kent airport until at least 2028.
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