I WOULD like to assure your correspondent Christopher Wardell (HAS, Jan 21) – and indeed all your readers – that Peel Airports is totally committed to the future of Durham Tees Valley Airport.

We are in constant discussions with airlines and operators on the potential for introducing additional services and routes from DTV and, whilst negotiations can often take a long time to come to fruition, we are optimistic that we can attract new business.

Our decision to introduce the Passenger Facility Fee was critical to ensuring the financial stability of the airport and to safeguard its future – and indeed we have been greatly encouraged by the understanding and support shown by many of our customers.

Mike Morton, airport director.