Blackpool International celebrates 100th anniversary

30/09/2009

By Sam Lock.

A giant suitcase has gone on display at Blackpool International Airport to mark the travel hub's 100th anniversary.

The 10-foot high interactive exhibition is located in the airport's terminal building and was created by local artist Paul Kondras to teach passengers about the history of flying at Blackpool.

Susan Kendrick, customer relations and communications manager, commented: "It's an exciting and fantastic way for our passengers and visitors to engage with Blackpool's past and discover everything about the aviation pioneers of the early 20th century to the present day."

Mr Kondras added that he has "a very strong attachment" to the Lancastrian seaside town.

Blackpool Airport was founded in 1909, a year that saw 200,000 spectators congregate at Squires Gate to watch England's first ever air show.

The air hub was used as a Royal Air Force base during the Second World War.

Blackpool International now offers 20 scheduled flights to European destinations such as Venice, Murcia, Sardinia, Croatia and Austria.