PLANNING is underway to reopen routes at Southampton Airport despite previous concerns that it is fighting for its future.

The airport was deserted after travel operator Flybe fell into administration in early March, which accounted for 95 per cent of flights at the airport.

But now, airport bosses have announced they are in “full on planning mode” for a return to usual operations once travel restrictions are lifted in lockdown.

A spokesperson for Southampton Airport said: “We are in full on planning mode for a safe return to operations and will commence flights as soon as it is safe to do so and the vital restrictions are lifted.

“We will have more news on this later this month, which we cannot wait to share with our passengers and the public.

“In the meantime, we are focusing on health and safety measures, working with all of our business partners to get ready to return, this includes speaking with airlines to secure new routes, and working with the government to ensure that we have a rigorous set of measures in place to safeguard passengers and staff.”

While managing director of Southampton Airport Neil Garwood said on social media that he is hoping to announce good news later in the month.

He wrote: “Early days but planning is underway for re-opening at least some of our route network at Southampton Airport.

“Hopefully some good news to share later this month.”

As previously reported by the Daily Echo, he announced last month that he will leave in June after nine years with the organisation.

But amid these changes, plans to extend the runway at the airport are still going ahead, according to an airport spokesperson.

They added: “All proceeding as planned. We have a full team working on it, and working towards determination of the planning application towards the end of June.

“Dates to be confirmed but we continue to liaise closely with Eastleigh Borough Council.”

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office currently advises British nationals against all but essential international travel.

The government website states: “If you live in the UK and are currently travelling abroad, you are strongly advised to return now, where and while there are still commercial routes available.

"Many airlines are suspending flights and many airports are closing, preventing flights from leaving.”