Horizon Aero Group fails to secure Gloucestershire Airport purchase
Gloucester City Council focuses on continued airport operation
Gloucester City Council and Cheltenham Borough Council have confirmed that Horizon Aero Group (HAG) was unable to secure the funds needed for the proposed purchase of Gloucestershire Airport.
Councillor Jeremy Hilton, leader of Gloucester City Council, stated that maintaining the airport's operational continuity is currently their top priority as next steps are evaluated.
The council is dedicated to supporting the aviation businesses at the airport, ensuring ongoing dialogue and stability during this time.
Despite operating losses escalating, work is being done to improve the airport's financial position and commercial viability as an aviation site.
Gloucester City Council emphasised the importance of careful consideration for decisions of this magnitude, aiming for a realistic and beneficial future direction for the city and surrounding areas.
Both councils are exploring various possibilities moving forward, without expecting immediate changes to the airport's daily operations or its businesses.
Councillor Hilton said: “Our focus is on keeping Gloucestershire Airport operating and supporting the aviation businesses that depend on it. I want to be clear that the proposed sale did not proceed because Horizon Aero Group was unable to secure the required funding and not because of any change in our position.
"We are not starting from scratch. Work is already underway to look at how the airport’s financial position can be improved and how operating losses can be reduced. We will take the time needed to properly consider the best way forward, remain calm and measured in our approach, and keep all realistic options under review to achieve the best possible outcome.”
Gloucester City Council and Cheltenham Borough Council will continue collaborating as joint owners and will provide further updates as plans develop.
According to Gloucester City Council, the anticipated income from the airport sale was originally planned to support its broader financial situation. Alternative short-term measures will now be implemented.