Freight operations and fuel infrastructure are at the heart of Doncaster Sheffield Airport’s growth plans, with ‘no glass ceiling’ being imposed on the site’s potential.
Speaking at Panattoni’s Doncaster 420 site – the largest spec-built unit in Yorkshire at 418,000 sq ft, just minutes from the airport – Christian Foster, director of South Yorkshire Airport City, highlighted the potential to expand cargo handling far beyond current levels.
The airport, which closed after handling an average of 23,000 tonnes of freight, could realistically aim for more than 100,000 tonnes, he said, with ambitions ultimately reaching 400,000 tonnes.
“There is no glass ceiling… In East Midlands, they’re handling 400,000 tonnes and aiming for 800,000 tonnes,” he noted.
Image credit: Andy McAteer
The airport’s two-mile long runway allows large cargo aircraft, such as the Antonov, to operate safely. “This is the runway that enables the largest aircraft to land,” Foster said. “When we talk about a ‘non-bucket-and-spade’ airport, we mean large freight planes.”
Fuel infrastructure is another priority, with plans for a new fuel farm to maximise commercial opportunities. “The way an airport makes money is in many ways, but fuel is key,” Foster said.
DSA is also positioning itself as a hub for sustainable aviation.
Partnerships with the University of Sheffield and private companies aim to develop hydrogen and sustainable aviation fuel production on site: “Airports need to be at the forefront of understanding future fuel needs,” Foster added.
The airport’s 20-year-old terminal is also set for a comprehensive redevelopment, including a full refurbishment to deliver a five-star passenger experience, redevelopment of the air traffic control tower, and expansion of the car park – potentially into a multi-storey facility with EV charging and green infrastructure.
“These projects are not just about aviation – they represent significant opportunities for local contractors and developers,” Foster said, noting multiple tenders for civil, mechanical, electrical, and specialist construction work.
Airside and logistics facilities will also be expanded, including four historic hangars from 1935, 100,000 sq ft of maintenance, repair, and overhaul facilities, and aircraft manufacturing sites ranging from 30 to 85 acres.
DSA’s 800-acre core lease, plus 126 acres for airside operations, provides major property development potential. Plans include:
NPL5: 3m sq ft for aviation, logistics, and green technology tenants.
Central Plaza: petrol station, business incubation units, and potential retail.
Gateway East: sustainable aviation fuel production, hydrogen facilities, and aviation manufacturing.
“This is effectively the size of Sheffield City Centre,” Foster said. “The opportunity for property developers, logistics operators, and construction firms is unprecedented in the region.”
The council expects more than 200 procurement opportunities, from terminal and air traffic control redevelopment to new hangars, energy infrastructure, and sustainable fuel facilities.
Local and national contractors are encouraged to register with DSA’s procurement team to participate.
This article was authored by Sally Gibson for Yorkshire Place and published under the title '‘North Heathrow’ ambitions outlined for Doncaster Sheffield Airport', on 'North Heathrow' ambitions outlined for Doncaster Sheffield Airport - Place Yorkshire. It is reproduced above in accordance with section 30(2) of the Copyright, Design and Patents Act 1988.
Don't miss out on our latest news, updates and events - sign up here.
