Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has announced that Carlisle Lake District Airport is now able to apply for a Government grant worth up to £8 million.
The Airport and Ground Operators Support Scheme, which opened on Friday 29 January, will help Carlisle Lake District Airport, and other commercial airports across England to cover losses on costs caused by the covid-19 pandemic, including airfield operations, contracted services such as airfield and runway maintenance, and business rate bills.
The financial support scheme, which follows the Government’s extension of the Job Retention Scheme, is open for applications until 21 February 2021.
This investment will help support Carlisle Lake District Airport following the introduction of international travel restrictions designed to protect public health and prevent the spread of Covid-19 as the Government continues to roll out its world leading vaccination programme.
Trudy said: “This latest significant support from the Government will be hugely beneficial for Carlisle Lake District Airport.
“The scheme reflects the aviation sector’s valuable contribution to the UK economy, and will help to ease pressure on airports hit by the pandemic as well as safeguarding jobs during these exceptionally challenging times.
“In 2019, I was honoured to join my colleagues on the first commercial flight for 26 years into Carlisle, and I look forward to flights in and out of our wonderful county taking off once again for many Lake District adventures, city culture and coastal enjoyment.”
Airports and ground handlers can apply to the scheme on GOV.UK, and if successful, should receive their funding by the end of the financial year.
Transport Secretary, Grant Shapps, said: “A thriving aviation industry has been central to the success of this country and while we recognise the testing conditions airports are currently facing as a result of the pandemic, I believe that the sector will be ready to bounce back once restrictions are lifted.
“Today’s scheme is another step in the right direction, providing vital support for an industry that is raring to get back to business, once it is safe to do so.”
