The possibility of Linz Airport near Pilsen disappearing is becoming more likely as the county councilors approved the start of work on updating the region’s spatial development principles. The most significant change being considered is a reduction in the size of the local enterprise zone, which could impact the future of the airport. The change is requested by the Ministry of Industry due to the $100 billion gigafactory project, Volkswagen’s electric car battery factory, which is a priority for the government. However, the carmaker is also considering other countries for the project.

The European Association for the Development of General Aviation, which runs an aviation museum in one of the hangars, has lobbied for the preservation of the airport. The region has pledged that the business park would not reduce the quality of life in the affected municipalities and that the air ambulance service would remain, but it may be unrealistic to agree to create a new airport elsewhere. The plan could also be misused, as it is not certain whether Volkswagen will build there, and any assembly plant could be built in its place.

Update of the spatial development principles is expected to take nine months to a year, with 28 of the 38 councilors present voting in favor of starting the process. Plzen Mayor Roman Zarzycky was one of the five councilors who voted against it. The future of Linz airport is uncertain as it depends on the outcome of the gigafactory project.

Article by Prague Forum