FoE report says cash is 'flying out' of region
05.08.05
According to environmental campaigners expansion at Birmingham and Coventry airport is not good for the West Midlands' economy. The sharp increase in cheap flights may be good for the holiday-maker, but this means travellers are spending more disposable income abroad rather than at home.
Friends of the Earth (FoE) produced research using data from the Office of National Statistics in a report release today. According to their estimates, the region is losing more than 4 times more revenue than it gains from aviation. This contradicts the claim that airport expansion is good for the economy.
UK air travellers using the region's airports are spending £1.7 billion abroad per year more than foreign visitors flying in. The report maintains the situation could get a lot worse if Birmingham and Coventry airports expand to cater for further growth in passengers.
Chris Crean, FoE, West Midlands campaigner said, 'We know airport expansion is bad for the environment. These figures show it is bad for the West Midlands economy, too.' He said that the expansion would lead to an annual deficit to the region of £3.3 billion by 2020.
'The decision makers must consider regional business interests and oppose airport expansion in the region.' said Crean said.
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