Swansea Council is set to agree a lease that will secure the future of the city’s airport.
Cabinet has agreed to grant a long-term lease to the Swansea Airport Stakeholders Alliance (SASA), securing the future of the airport and its recently reinstated Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) licence.
The decision follows a Cabinet report outlining options for the site after a period of interim arrangements.
It builds on progress made since July 2024, when successful talks led to SASA taking temporary control of the airport to ensure it remained open after the previous operator surrendered its lease.
Since taking over, SASA has:
- Reinstated the CAA aerodrome licence after a successful audit.
- Improved operational standards and compliance across the site.
- Rebuilt the airport’s reputation among the flying community.
- Introduced new amenities, including an operational café.
- Attracted interest from businesses looking to relocate to the airport, which could bring further investment and employment opportunities.
Under the proposal approved by Cabinet, SASA will be offered a long lease on commercial terms, subject to independent valuation to ensure best consideration for the Council.
This approach will allow SASA to invest in infrastructure, create jobs, maintain the airport’s operational licence and protect the council’s interests as landlord of the airport.
Council Leader Rob Stewart said: “This is great news for Swansea airport, the airport users and aviation enthusiasts and for Swansea generally
“The airport had faced an uncertain future for a number of years prior to the council working with SASA to put in place a management plan.
He added: “When we stepped in last year, our priority was to keep the airport open.
“Since then, the alliance has shown real commitment and delivered improvements that give us confidence in its ability to secure the airport’s long-term future.”
“The council has decided to offer the lease to SASA as pursuing other options would have meant taking the site to market and re-applying for a CAA licence, which could have led to disruption and uncertainty. By agreeing this lease, we are safeguarding continuity and it paves the way for future investment that benefits the local economy.”
“This decision means we can build on that success. It gives SASA the certainty it needs to attract new businesses, create jobs, and continue improving facilities for the flying community and the wider public.”
