Carlisle Lake District Airport is aiming to regain its licensed status in spring 2027, allowing small-scale private charter flights to operate initially, as its owners set out a phased plan to improve the site's operational capabilities and Cumberland Council backs efforts to restore commercial passenger services.
image: Carlisle Lake District Airport
The airport, which is currently operating as an unlicensed aerodrome, plans to introduce a modern satellite-based instrument approach system in 2028. Known as RNAV/GNSS, the technology would allow aircraft to approach and land with greater reliability in poor weather and reduced visibility.
The airport's previous instrument approach system, dating from the 1940s, became obsolete in 2020. Aircraft currently rely on visual approaches, which can prevent operations when weather conditions deteriorate.
In a statement, the airport said recent investment included a new remote runway lighting system, which allows visiting pilots to activate the lights on approach, and the reopening of its on-site café. Activity at the site has also increased through military training exercises supporting UK and NATO forces.
The airport has also worked with Bristow Helicopters to support HM Coastguard's seasonal AW189 search and rescue helicopter base, and is investing in further infrastructure to support the operation over the longer term.
The update follows a vote at Cumberland Council earlier this month supporting the long-term restoration of sustainable commercial passenger services at the airport.
Councillors backed an amended motion calling on the authority to work with the airport's owner, the AW Jenkinson Group, airlines, the Borderlands Partnership, local MPs and relevant government departments to explore opportunities for restoring services.
The council also agreed that the airport's future role and development should be considered through its Local Transport Plan, with a progress report to be brought back to members within six months.
The airport came under the control of the AW Jenkinson Group in May 2024, with Cumberland Council retaining ownership of the site as landlord.
The return of scheduled passenger services remains a longer-term aspiration rather than part of the immediate licensing programme. The airport said attracting major commercial airlines would require significant investment in infrastructure and navigation systems, potentially running into millions of pounds, as well as sufficient passenger demand to support commercially viable routes.
Carlisle previously had scheduled passenger services operated by Loganair, which resumed flights in 2019 following a 26-year absence. Routes included London Southend, Belfast City and Dublin, but services ended in March 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic and have not returned.