A FREELANCE flying instructor has set up a petition demanding Government help to secure the future of Durham Tees Valley Airport.

Paul Carlton launched his petition on the Government website asking the Department for Transport to secure the airport’s future after Peel Airports put it up for sale last week.

Mr Carlton, who runs training flights from the airport, said it needed greater focus to ensure it survived after the initial expectations from Vancouver Airport Services, which bought a controlling share in Peel Airports 18 months ago, led to “disappointment”.

His petition states: “I would like the Government to take direct action to secure the future of our airport. This airport is a vital hub for the North-East and could be a major hub for international travellers.

“We need flexibility as well as investment in our transport infrastructure.

“With investment, the right management and the right partners, Durham Tees Valley Airport would be viable and profitable. The state should take ownership of the entire site, including the land hived off by the current owners and management.”

MPs from across the region have asked for a cross-party group to help keep the airport open. Phil Wilson, the Labour MP for Sedgefield, County Durham, will meet airport directors and union bosses today. He has written to Transport Secretary Theresa Villiers asking for her support.

He said: “I know she cannot directly intervene in the sale, but I want to know what the Government can do.”

Tom Blenkinsop, the Labour MP for south Middlesbrough and east Cleveland, also asked in Parliament if Mrs Villiers had plans to safeguard its future.

In her answer, she said she recognised the vital economic contribution of regional airports and appreciated the announcement would cause concern in the North-East.

However, she added: “Any decision to sell the airport is a commercial matter for its joint owners.”

James Wharton, the Conservative MP for Stockton South, said the airport could not be nationalised and that Government support would be limited unless Peel or potential buyers asked for specific help.

He said: “The petition emphasises the importance of the airport to the area and to businesses. I welcome efforts to promote its sale as a going concern and anything which could secure its future.”

Any e-petition that has at least 100,000 signatures, will be eligible for debate in the House of Commons. To sign the petition, go to northern echo.co.uk/dtva