Task Force created to address the value of regional connectivity as debate to determine the next runway for the SE gathers momentum

A 15-strong independent Task Force* created to examine the current and future requirement for improved connectivity between the UK’s regions and the major hub/gateway airports short-listed by the Airports Commission is announced today, 1st December. The Group comprises international and UK experts from across academia, the aviation industry and the UK’s nations and regions.

As firm advocates for connectivity, the Group will make recommendations on what needs to be achieved and how it can be practically delivered (both before and after the new runway capacity is built), in time to inform the Airports Commission’s national consultation. That document, launched on 11 November, formally closes on 3 February, 2015. The National Connectivity Task Force will set out proposals optimised for local, regional and national economies across the UK with the objective that a ‘globally’ competitive airport system is accessible to all parts of the UK, including home nations and Crown Dependencies. This would ensure that the UK regions are not forced to rely on hub airports located outside UK national boundaries for their global connectivity.

Task Force Chairman Lord John Shipley expressed confidence that the Task Force will come up with a number of important recommendations on how improved air links to London can contribute to national connectivity and regional economic growth, as he issued a call for evidence and ideas from those with a direct and indirect interest in the Task Force’s work.

Ideas invited on regional connectivity before 19th December, 2014

Emphasising the independence of the Task Force’s members, Lord Shipley announced that:

“We are today issuing an invitation to all those with an interest in seeing the UK’s regions, home nations and Crown Dependencies better connected to London, the rest of the UK, European and wider global markets, to write to the Task Force via its website www.nationalconnectivitytaskforce.co.uk. We are inviting ideas on how proposed air service improvements could be brought about and their value optimized; who they would benefit and which agencies should be made responsible for ensuring they are delivered and over what timescale.”

“Any submissions made to us on or before 19 December will be welcomed and carefully considered,” he added.