Модернизация воздушного пространства в Котсволдском аэропорте может создать до 450 рабочих мест

Hundreds of jobs could be unlocked in the West Country if the government uses existing powers to fast-track airspace reforms at Cotswold Airport, a think tank has said. The Good Growth Foundation (GGF) is urging transport secretary Heidi Alexander to accelerate changes that would allow for more flight testing of drones and other emerging technologies. The report - A Golden Ticket for Government - argues Cotswold Airport could become a centre for drones, aerospace engineering, testing, advanced logistics and autonomous aviation, creating up to 450 skilled jobs. Cotswold Airport, near the village of Kemble, is already home 'flying taxi' firm Vertical Aerospace. The New York-listed company has a flight test centre at the airport and last month announced plans to build a factory at the site as it moves towards commercial production. The GGF report identifies Cotswold Airport as a "strong potential candidate" for airspace reforms because of its aircraft storage and maintenance activity; available operational space; and relatively low-congestion airspace environment. Praful Nargund, director of The Good Growth Foundation, said: “This is an opportunity to turn Cotswold Airport’s existing strengths into a source of innovation and long-term security for the local community." The GGF believes Cotswold Airport should replicate a model being proposed for Lydd Airport in Kent, which has been identified for a 'special use airspace' pilot. It says by having a specific managed airspace area, drones, autonomous aircraft and conventional aviation would be able to operate "safely together, helping to attract investment in the third generation of flight". "The government should back the model at Lydd and replicate it in Kemble to unlock high-skilled jobs and investment," added Mr Nargund. "This is what good growth in every postcode looks like." If the Lydd model is proven, the report argues it could provide a blueprint for other regional sites, including Cotswold Airport. Tony Vaughn MP for Folkestone and Hythe, said: "This proposal offers a chance to put Lydd on a secure footing for the future, bringing new investment and good jobs for local people while helping to ensure that young people do not have to leave the area to find skilled work. “I want to see our coastal communities at the front of the queue for the jobs and industries of the future. With the right backing from Government, Lydd can be a powerful example of what that looks like in practice.” The think tank is calling on Ms Alexander to issue so-called 'Air Navigation Directions' to prioritise and accelerate airspace changes. "This mechanism could help airports develop new commercial roles in sectors such as drone inspection, logistics, maintenance, aerospace manufacturing, testing, software and airspace-management systems," the think tank added.