Courts has written to the Oliver Coppard, the mayor of South Yorkshire, urging him to consider ways to save the facility. The airport’s owners, Peel Group, claim Doncaster Sheffield is unviable following the exit of Wizz Air in June, which left only Tui with a small base there. 

Peel Group has begun a consultation period with staff before a possible closure. It said last month a review had concluded the airport “may no longer be commercially viable”.

In his letter, Courts said that “whilst the UK government supports airports, it does not own or operate them”. However, he pointed out several local authorities were shareholders in airports including Manchester, Birmingham and Luton.

“Most recently, Teesside International airport was acquired by Tees Valley Combined Authority to secure its long-term future.

"This model - where a local mayor and combined authority brings together all the relevant parties and creates a solution – is one that I strongly suggest you, as the relevant tier of government, and with the local responsibility, seriously consider.”

Courts said he wanted to meet with Coppard, who leads South Yorkshire Combined Authority for Labour and the Co-operative parties, and would introduce him to Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen, who led the rescue of the airport there.