Airlander aircraft work takes flight in Doncaster

Work is underway to establish a “pioneering” 1200-job ultra-low emissions aircraft production site.

Hybrid Air Vehicles (HAV) is developing a 50-hectare site at Carcroft Common, in Doncaster, as the future hub for the Airlander 10, having announced a partnership with the City of Doncaster Council earlier this year.

The aircraft, designed for 100-passenger journeys or freight transportation, will be made, tested and certified at the base, with a planned capacity of up to 24 units annually.

Bosses say the site, supported by a £7 million loan from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, will “bring new opportunities” and “catalyse activity in the region”, with 1200 skilled green jobs set to be created, as well as establishing new supply chains and driving investment within the South Yorkshire Investment Zone.

Nick Allman, chief operating officer of Hybrid Air Vehicles, said: “We welcome the release of the first instalment of the £7 million loan.

“Alongside the investment that we are bringing to this programme, it allows our team to progress the planning permission submission for the Airlander 10 production site at Carcroft Common, advancing several steps on our production site such as completing surveys and ground investigations, as well as engaging key design and planning suppliers.  

Oliver Coppard, South Yorkshire’s mayor, added: “I’m delighted to see Hybrid Air Vehicles moving forward with these plans.

“We are creating a world-leading centre for sustainable aviation in South Yorkshire.”

HAV has also opened an office at Cavendish Court, in Doncaster's city centre, to support its expansion as it aligns with the city’s Economic Strategy 2030 to foster advanced manufacturing and economic growth.

Nick added: “Opening our Cavendish Court office catalyses activity in the region by providing us with a place to build connections with the local community and welcome partners while our Carcroft Common site is being developed.”

Ros Jones, mayor of Doncaster, added: “It’s great news that Hybrid Air Vehicles will make Doncaster their home.

“This development will bring substantial investment and create highly skilled job opportunities, further strengthening Doncaster's position as a hub for innovation and industry.”

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