Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide

Aerospace

Manston Airport granted DCO

A Development Consent Order (DCO) has been granted by the Department for Transport to reactivate Manston Airport as a dedicated air freight hub.

Image courtesy Osprey CSL

A Development Consent Order (DCO) has been granted by the Department for Transport to reactivate Manston Airport as a dedicated air freight hub.

The DCO is a formal process by which Government gives the green light to developments categorised as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP).

Advertisement
Teledyne

Osprey CSL has been supporting RiverOak Strategic Partners (RSP) for over four years in all aspects of this exciting project. From informing the original business case and investment plans, supporting the planning application through the DCO process, including public consultation and public hearings, to identifying the operational aspects of the Airport Masterplan. 

As there are no operators or service providers yet in place, the project has required Osprey’s unique range of capabilities including detailed knowledge of Air Platforms and Systems, Airports and Airspace, Instrument Flight Procedure Design and Air Traffic Management (ATM) Systems and Safety Assessments.

Within the project Osprey CSL have worked with partners and already delivered over 50 separate pieces of work ranging from small operational studies to initiating a full airspace change which is integrated into the Future Airspace Strategy Programme. Osprey CSL are now preparing to deliver a comprehensive range of services in what will be a once-in-a-generation project for the UK; developing a major international airport from an empty brownfield site. 

This will include Airport Certification to EASA standards, the provision of Air Traffic Services including the implementation of Digital Tower technologies, the application for airspace and procedures and the installation of a full suite of ATM Systems together with safety assurance and regulatory approvals.

Rich Connelly, Chief Operating Officer at Osprey said: “It has not been lost on us that approval to reactivate this historic airfield has been granted just as we mark the 80th Anniversary of the start of the Battle of Britain; a battle in which Manston played a pivotal role.

"However, this project provides us with a unique opportunity to look forward. Most airports evolve and develop slowly over tens of years; frequently having to manage legacy issues and challenges. At Manston we have an opportunity to develop an airport that delivers unprecedented levels of efficiency and capability whilst, from the outset, seeking to minimise environmental impact. 

Advertisement
DSEI 2025

"To represent the views and requirements of a range of potential airport stakeholders this has already been a ‘whole Osprey’ project. Moving forward, we will use the same approach to deliver RSP’s ambitious plans for the site. Where appropriate, this will include challenging convention to ensure Manston Airport remains an important part of UK aviation for the next 80 years.”

 

 

Advertisement
Babcock LB
Doncasters expands Groton site with new shell line

Aerospace

Doncasters expands Groton site with new shell line

15 July 2025

Doncasters today announced the successful commissioning of a brand-new, fully automated shell line, at its Groton facility in the US - a major milestone within its 2025 Performance Improvement Plan and a key advancement in the company’s long-term manufacturing strategy.

ZeroAvia and Horizon Aircraft to explore hydrogen eVTOL propulsion

Aerospace

ZeroAvia and Horizon Aircraft to explore hydrogen eVTOL propulsion

15 July 2025

ZeroAvia and Horizon Aircraft today announced plans to work together on developing regional hydrogen-electric VTOL air travel.

Bombardier’s paint facility at Biggin Hill set for 2026 opening

Aerospace

Bombardier’s paint facility at Biggin Hill set for 2026 opening

14 July 2025

Bombardier's development of a new 51,000 sq. ft. paint facility at the London Biggin Hill Service Centre is progressing with several key processes completed, including ground stabilisation and foundation work on the hangar.

AAIB launches investigation into incident at Southend Airport

Aerospace

AAIB launches investigation into incident at Southend Airport

14 July 2025

The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has started an investigation into an incident near Southend Airport on Sunday 13th July, involving a 12-metre plane that crashed shortly after take-off.

Advertisement
ODU RT
First electric flight lands at Gatwick

Aerospace

First electric flight lands at Gatwick

14 July 2025

The first ever electric flight to land at London Gatwick took place last Thursday as part of the VINCI Airports Network Elektro Tour.

Airframe Designs appoints new Advisory Board chairman

Aerospace

Airframe Designs appoints new Advisory Board chairman

14 July 2025

Aerospace specialist Airframe Designs has appointed David Roberts as the new chairman of its Advisory Board, as it continues to expand its services in engineering and additive manufacturing to the aviation and related sectors worldwide.

Advertisement
DSEI 2025