A push to welcome more staff to Teesside International Airport as it expands and attracts more activity has marked a successful open day.
No fewer than 60 candidates were welcomed for interviews and applications last week as part of a drive to recruit people to Multi-Skilled Operative and Cargo Warehouse roles as airport activity ramps up.
The effort comes after a major new long-haul air freight agreement between the airport and European Cargo was unveiled in March – bringing cargo-laden Airbus A340-600 long-haul freighters to Teesside from China.
Applicants from varied backgrounds and walks of life have applied for roles.
Michael Young, 62, spent more than 40 years working at Arriva.
“I just wanted something away from a desk job,” he said.
“I wanted to do this for the challenge – I’ve always been interested in aviation and used to use Teesside Airport. I’d like to expand on my knowledge and experience and I’m looking for something more physical.”
Ben Barton, from Stockton, was looking for a role while he studies his Aviation, Travel and Tourism Foundation Degree course, in partnership with Teesside University, while studying at Hartlepool College of Further Education.
“My tutor said this was the perfect opportunity for me,” said the 20-year-old.
Chloe Holmes, General Manager of Teesside International Airport, said: “We’ve been really encouraged by the level of interest we’ve seen, with strong engagement from people right across our region, and beyond, keen to be part of what we’re building here.
“As activity continues to increase, particularly with the growth in our cargo operations, it’s vital we bring in talented local people who can help us deliver on our ambitions.
“Ours is an airport on the up, with more opportunities being created all the time, and we want our region to benefit from this success through rewarding roles and long-term career progression.
“Teesside Airport plays a key role in driving jobs, skills and investment and we’d urge anyone interested to keep an eye out for future vacancies to be part of our journey.”
Linked by the A1(M) and A66 nearby, the East Coast Mainline, in Darlington, and just a few miles from key ports on the River Tees, Teesside Airport’s freight facilities are ideally placed in the heart of Britain to make the most of road and rail links.
The rising cargo operations come as demand continues to serve Willis Aviation Services Limited’s new £13.5million aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul facility, the development of two aircraft painting facilities operated by Airbourne Colours and the ongoing construction of a new £7million hangar by aerospace firm Draken at Teesside.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen added: “We’re building real momentum at Teesside Airport, and our new deal with European Cargo is opening the door to more good-quality jobs for local people.
“With more flights taking off, a growing cargo operation and other major investments on site underway, we’re creating new opportunities right across the board.
“It’s great to see such a strong turnout, which shows people recognise the progress we’re making. There’s more to come, so I’d encourage anyone interested to get involved and be part of it.”
More airport jobs are set to be open for recruitment soon.