London Southend Airport was last night announced as the winner of the European Regions Airline Association (ERA) Airport Achievement Award 2010/11.
Mr Alastair Welch, Managing Director was presented with the trophy by Apolo Ruiz, Sales Territory Director, Spain & Portugal, from Award sponsor, SITA at the Association’s annual General Assembly Awards Dinner in Barcelona.
London Southend Airport, located just North East of the UK capital, won the award for its tremendous achievement of gaining planning permission for a runway extension without the need for a public enquiry. This achievement was deemed by the judges to have fundamental and long lasting effects on air transport in the region, which would greatly enhance the airport’s business and result in increased services for the community when it is completed in 2011.
The judges cited the dedication and determination of the team involved as the key drivers for their success, and applauded their astute approach in seizing the window of opportunity provided by the London 2012 Olympics and the professional execution of their campaign.
London Southend Airport was purchased by The Stobart Group in December 2008. Planning application for an extension to the runway was submitted to Southend Borough Council on 13th October 2009. On Wednesday 20th January 2010, Southend Council’s Development Control Committee passed the runway extension plan by a majority 14 votes to 3.
The ERA Airport Achievement Award aims to recognise an airport achievement which has had a positive impact on intra-European air transport operations, and to promote the importance of airline-airport partnerships. It is judged by a panel of distinguished industry experts from throughout Europe.
