New buyer selected for Gloucestershire Airport as current owners seek long-term future

A preferred buyer has been selected for Gloucestershire Airport (GLO), raising hopes for the future of the 350-acre site at Staverton near Gloucester after an earlier attempt to sell the airport collapsed.

As reported by the BBC, Gloucester City Council and Cheltenham Borough Council, which jointly own the airport, confirmed on 22 October that a company had been successful in the latest bidding process. However, the identity of the prospective buyer and the financial details of the proposed deal remain confidential while due diligence takes place.

The councils said the successful bidder had committed to maintaining the airport as a thriving centre for aviation and supporting the businesses operating across the site. Councillor Rowena Hay, leader of Cheltenham Borough Council, described the development as an important step towards securing the airport’s long-term future. Gloucester City Council also highlighted the airport’s contribution to the regional economy and the importance of protecting its existing businesses.

Second attempt to secure a sale

The announcement follows a failed attempt to sell the airport to Horizon Aero Group, whose proposed acquisition fell through in March 2026 after eight months of negotiations. The councils said they had been unable to reach an agreement because the terms had moved significantly away from the original proposal. Horizon was also unable to provide sufficient financial certainty to complete the transaction.

The airport was subsequently returned to the market in June, with property adviser Savills appointed to manage the renewed sales process. It had originally been offered for sale with a guide price of £25 million.

Among those interested in acquiring the airport previously were Superdry founder Julian Dunkerton and aviation businessman Chris Makin, whose bid was unsuccessful. The latest preferred bidder now faces a period of due diligence before the sale can proceed. The councils have not confirmed when the transaction might be completed.

Financial pressures behind the decision

The sale comes amid continuing financial pressures for the airport, which has reportedly been losing approximately £2.1 million annually when depreciation and interest costs are included. Although the councils have invested in improvements, they have concluded that continued public ownership is not the most sustainable option.

In June, both authorities said they wanted a new owner capable of delivering long-term investment and sustainable growth. The objective is to secure the airport’s future while reducing the financial burden on local taxpayers. The airport remains operational during the sales process.

Protecting jobs and aviation

Gloucestershire Airport is an important regional aviation facility, supporting private and business flights, pilot training and other aviation activities. Its wider site also accommodates around 50 businesses, providing employment and supporting the local economy. The airport’s future is therefore significant beyond the immediate question of ownership. Businesses based at Staverton will want reassurance that the new owner intends to maintain aviation operations and provide a stable environment for investment.

The councils have emphasised that the preferred bidder has committed to supporting the businesses already operating there. However, questions remain about the buyer’s identity, the purchase price, future investment plans and the precise terms governing the airport’s long-term operation. The due diligence process will allow the parties to examine the financial, legal and commercial aspects of the proposed transaction before proceeding.

The selection of a preferred bidder represents progress, but it does not mean the sale has been completed. The collapse of the previous agreement demonstrates the importance of securing a financially deliverable deal.

In the meantime, the priority for both councils will be to complete the transaction on acceptable terms while protecting the airport’s businesses, employees and aviation operations. The coming months should provide a clearer picture of whether the new buyer can deliver the investment and stability that Gloucestershire Airport needs for the future.