DSA shut in 2022 after several airlines pulled out, including its only based airline Wizz Air. Owner Peel Group claimed the site was no longer viable as a result.

However, the council secured funds to lease the site from Peel in February, a deal inked in March, and has been seeking a partner to operate the airport following a tendering process.

While a decision had been due in the summer, the council on Monday (4 November) confirmed a bidder had been identified "with the aim of having passenger flights taking off from spring 2026".

While details of the bidder will remain confidential for now, the council said it expected to complete a deal by Christmas.

It is seeking a £3 million financial package from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority to support the negotiations and prepare the site.

Efforts to reinstate the necessary airspace are ongoing, pending consideration by the CAA.

The council’s business case claims reopening DSA could create more than 5,000 new direct jobs and 6,500 indirect jobs, and bring a £6.6 billion economic boost.

Tui has previously said it was excited to re-engage with DSA and was "keen" on a return to the airport.