Oral Question·Department for Transport
“What plans she has to work with regional airports to increase the number of short-haul destinations available.”
Tabled: 22 October 2026Answered: 29 October 2026
Asked by
Steve Darling
Liberal Democrat — Torbay
Answering Minister
the Secretary of State for Transport
Answer from Hansard
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Keir Mather)
Regional airports are vital gateways for passengers and major sources of local employment. The UK aviation sector operates in a commercial market, with airports attracting passengers and airlines responding to demand through route development. The UK Government support airport growth across the country. Through the Aviation Council, which I co-chair, and its regional connectivity working group, we are examining the challenges and opportunities facing regional airports.