TEESSIDE AIRPORT NEWS - 14/04/2009

Teesside Airport 'will survive recession'

Durham Tees Valley Airport has denied claims that it is struggling more than others during the economic downturn.

According to the Northern Echo, bosses have commented on a story published on the BBC website last week (April 11th) by stating that the facility is no worse off than any other airport in the UK.

Despite figures from the Airport Operators Association (AOA) that warned of falling traffic, Teesside Airport served some 5,000 passengers over the Easter weekend.

Speaking to the publication, a spokesman for the travel hub commented: "Total passenger numbers fell by 12 per cent last year, similar to the level of reduction experienced at a number of regional airports.

"The industry needs a budget that recognises the scale of the problems and provides support, rather than increasing the financial burdens," he added.

AOA head of policy David Bishop said that, with regards to regional airports, "the financial situation is grim".

Some 670,000 people passed through the gates at Durham Tees Valley Airport last year.

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