We take a look at research carried out within the Airlander production site community
Doncaster is poised to become a hub for sustainable aviation with Airlander 10’s production facility set for Carcroft Common and Hybrid Air Vehicles' (HAV) new office opening in the city centre. These developments are more than just milestones for HAV—they represent an increased connection to the local community and another step closer to our commitment to creating over 1,200 highly-skilled jobs in the region.
We’re excited to have worked with CoFFEE (Co-Creation of Future Flight Ecosystems and Enterprise), a research initiative focused on sustainable aviation and community engagement, to survey the people living closest to the planned Airlander 10 production site. Residents were asked about their thoughts on Airlander, its impact on Doncaster, and its role in shaping the future of sustainable aviation. This research focused on the site’s neighbours in Carcroft and those further afield in Doncaster, with some respondents from the wider South Yorkshire region. We look forward to further exploring the views of those who live and work around Doncaster and the South Yorkshire region in the future.
The results show an overwhelming positivity towards the creation of jobs in the region, especially given the highly-skilled nature of the roles, and an optimism around the future of sustainable aviation.
At a glance
- More than 90% agreed HAV would create good jobs
- 85% agreed Airlander is a good fit for Doncaster
- 80% agreed they are proud of Doncaster’s role in sustainable aviation
- 80% agreed they will look forward to seeing Airlander flying in the Carcroft area
Is Airlander a good fit for Doncaster?
One of the questions asked was: Do you think Airlander is a good fit for Doncaster? An impressive 85% of respondents agreed. This overwhelming positivity highlights the alignment between Airlander’s goals and the aspirations of the local community.
Respondents shared optimism about the opportunities Airlander brings, including putting Doncaster on the map as a leader in innovative aviation and sustainable manufacturing.
Will HAV create good jobs in Doncaster?
When asked if Airlander will create good jobs for people in Doncaster, 92% of respondents agreed. This reflects strong confidence in the economic benefits the project will deliver, with over 1,200 new roles planned for the region.
These responses underline the potential for Airlander’s production facility to boost local employment, strengthen the economy, and create career opportunities across a wide range of skill sets.
Are you proud of Doncaster’s role in sustainable aviation?
Another question focused on Airlander’s environmental credentials: Do you like the fact that Carcroft will be building an aircraft which is better for the environment? Once again, 86% of respondents agreed.
Residents also recognised Airlander’s ultra-low-emission design, the use of recyclable materials in production, and the use of renewable energy as aligning with their values around sustainability. This enthusiasm for greener aviation highlights Doncaster’s readiness to embrace a future where innovation and environmental responsibility go hand in hand. 80% agreed they are proud of Doncaster’s role in sustainable aviation
A shared vision for the future
From job creation to environmental leadership, Airlander represents a shared opportunity to grow together. With 80% of people agreeing that they look forward to seeing Airlander flying in the Carcroft area, the enthusiasm and optimism for Airlander production coming to the South Yorkshire region is clear.
At HAV, we’re excited to continue building this future alongside our new neighbours, helping Doncaster lead the way in sustainable flight. Keep an eye out for more results and the full report coming soon.