Tory leadership contender Liz Truss has urged Peel Group, the airport’s owners, to think again. Peel Group claim the airport is no longer commercially viable following the exit of Wizz Air, which closed its base there at short notice in June. 

The Yorkshire Post quoted a letter from Truss to local MP Nick Fletcher, which said: “I fully believe there is a viable future for this airport – and hope that the owners (the Peel Group) will examine all options throughout the review underway to find a sustainable path forward.

“I would implore the Peel Group to work closely with all those affected to find a solution that works for everyone - including yourself, other Members of Parliament, local businesses, and local leaders.”

Around 800 jobs are said to be at risk from the closure, with a petition already attracting 10,000 signatures. An initial six-week consultation procedure has now been extended until 16 September.