The result of the strategic review into the potential closure of Doncaster Sheffield Airport has been held back as a mark of respect to the Queen.
Owner Peel Group was due to present its conclusions on Friday following the shock announcement in July that revealed it “may no longer be commercially viable.” It threatens up to 800 jobs.
A credible consortium has emerged according to civic leaders in South Yorkshire, though Peel has yet to see evidence. It will now make the announcement on Monday, September 26.
Read more: Mayor 'disappointed' closure-threatened airport potential not unlocked
A spokesperson for Peel said: "We requested details of the identity of the consortium, but this has not been forthcoming, nor have the terms of any proposal or evidence of the consortium's financial standing or aviation expertise.”
The 17-year-old airport’s future was placed in jeopardy following the withdrawal of Wizz Air. It left Doncaster Sheffield with only TUI as the regular operator.
The company had said that despite the investment and growth, DSA had "never achieved the critical mass required to become profitable", adding lengthy deliberations had led to the decision to launch a strategic review.
Launched as Robin Hood Airport, flights to holiday destinations in Europe as well as the USA, Mexico and Egypt have operated from the former RAF Finningley site previously.
Mayor of Doncaster, Ros Jones, said there was "strong market interest", with one "extremely serious proposition".
Ms Jones said: "The closure of DSA would have an immediate effect on employment and the economic future of Doncaster and South Yorkshire at a time when our economy is beset by challenges on inflation, energy costs and economic confidence following the Covid pandemic."
South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard added: "Since Peel announced the review into DSA our biggest fear was that they were running down the clock while undermining confidence in the airport. So we launched our own search for potential operators and investors in the site, and we've found a strong and credible proposition which requires serious consideration. This is no guarantee but it is a significant step forward."
Peel said the delay was out of respect to the Queen. Doncaster was only granted city status as part of her Platinum Jubilee celebrations in May.
