AIRLINES have confirmed that contingency plans are in place after bosses at Lancashire’s only commercial airport said it was ‘likely to close’.

Blackpool International Airport, which is used by thousands of East Lancashire holidaymakers every year, said flights would cease from October 15 if a buyer was not found for the airport’s operating company by October 7.

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East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce described the announcement as ‘a disappointment for the whole county’.

The airport, which employs around 110 staff, saw its Squires Gate Lane hub put up for sale by owners Balfour Beatty in August.

A statement on behalf of the airport said: “The airport operations have been making a loss for a number of years and options are currently being explored in an attempt to secure the future of the airport.

“The airport regretfully confirms that if no agreement can be reached before October 7, 2014 which ensures the viability of its operations, then it is likely that the airport operations will close.

“In this event, it is expected that the last commercial flights will take place on Wednesday, October 15.

“Blackpool Airport apologises for the uncertainty this will cause over the coming weeks and recommends that any affected passengers contact their airline to confirm travel arrangements.”

Mike Damms, chief executive of East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, said the airport’s closure would be ‘a psychological blow’ for the region.

He said: “Fingers crossed a resolution is found. It would certainly be a dent to Lancashire’s pride to lose its only regional airport. It’s not good news on various levels. The impact on East Lancashire may not be direct, but unfortunately it could detract from investment and accessibility further down the line.”

A spokesman for Jet2.com, one of three airlines to fly from Blackpool, said: “Today’s [Monday’s] announcement has come as a surprise to us.

“It is our intention to continue operating flights as normal from Blackpool Airport.

“Should the airport make the decision to close, contingency plans will be in place and we will do everything we can to support both our loyal Jet2.com and Jet2holidays staff and customers.”

Citywing, which also operates services from Blackpool, said: “We are working together with the airport to seek out an interim position for continued operations, with a view to having a positive outcome for the longer term.

“Citywing understands that the position is fluid but remains positive for future operations to Blackpool.”