AIRPORT bosses have confirmed that Southend Airport is now officially up for sale - and here is everything we know so far.

Earlier this week, it was confirmed that the owners of Southend Airport had begun the “process of the sale” of the business.

The latest announcement comes after Esken issued updates on its performance and revealed its financial struggles. 

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In the report, it stated: “Esken completed a strategic review of its operating businesses and is actively progressing a managed sale process of its core Renewables and Aviation businesses.

“Esken has started the process for the sale of London Southend Airport, its key strategic airport asset within the Aviation business.”

Back in November, it was reported that the owners were mulling over a sell-off, following £8.6 million losses.

Despite Esken now starting the process for the sale of the airport, the executive chairman, David Shearer, did note that the aviation business is still making process.

He said: “Over the last financial year, we secured a successful debt fund raising in difficult market conditions, completed a strategic review of our operating businesses, and are now progressing with our plans to sell our core operating businesses and residual non-core assets through a managed disposal process with a view to returning any remaining value to Esken shareholders.

 “Our Aviation business continues to make progress as demand recovers, with Southend Airport signing a multi-year partnership with easyJet in January 2023 - the airline will now serve five destinations from the airport.

“We installed a new, experienced senior management team and the case for the airport remains well founded as demonstrated by the increase in routes served by easyJet.”

Even though the news may be a concern to some, one travel expert believed this could be a turning point for the airport.

Rob Staines, a travel expert who has visited more than 70 countries, said: “Southend Airport unfortunately has a history of struggling to attract airlines and passengers through its doors and it has been particularly affected by the pandemic.

“As Esken battles with its own finances it’s not a surprise that this area of the business has been put up for sale – they have previously stripped various aviation assets such as ground handling services at Manchester and Stansted.

“However, whilst the sale may cause concern for staff and passengers, this could turn out to be a turning point for the airport if the right buyer is found.

“Investors may see Southend as an attractive offering - EasyJet has signed a multi-year commitment to use the airport including year-round services to Amsterdam and Paris and with the right management, and given the increase in demand for travel, other carriers may be tempted.

“I personally find Southend a great airport with a personalised, boutique feel that most London airports cannot offer due to size.

“It is strategically placed to serve the southeast of England with good connections, and I hope the right buyer is found.”