Multicom boss calls for better use of existing airport capacity

The government must give greater consideration to the capacity of regional airports for growth when developing its new aviation strategy.

The government must give greater consideration to the capacity of regional airports for growth when developing its new aviation strategy.

The call comes from the boss of Bristol-based travel software firm Multicom, backing recommendations submitted by Bristol airport in response to the government’s draft aviation policy framework.

The company’s managing director John Howell said: “Regional airports can play a vital role in kick-starting our economy and getting Britain back on track.

“There is a thriving technology sector here in Bristol for example that could really flourish with the right support in place and policies from central government developed to build on that opportunity.’

He added: “For far too long this country’s aviation policies have been driven by a belief that the world starts and ends in the southeast of England.

“It is time the government took a much overdue less-blinkered look at how regional airports such as Bristol can help deliver the much-needed stimulus our economy requires.”

Howell backed the views of Bristol airport chief executive Robert Sinclair and Peel Holdings chief executive Craig Richmond in wanting to see existing capacity brought into play.

“At a time when our recovery remains extremely fragile it is crucial that government creates the right environment for business growth,” said Howell.

“Encouraging the use of existing capacity at regional airports would be one step in the right direction to achieving that goal.”