Bristol and Exeter may have to fight it out to host the main regional airport in the South West, according to a new report.

The two airports would both be supported over the next 15 years before one was chosen as the region's flagship, says the South West Regional Development Agency (RDA).

The suggestions came days after plans were unveiled to create a new regional airport in south Devon.

Factors like public transport access and passenger numbers will ultimately determine the regional winner.

Rail links

The RDA made its recommendations in response to the government's consultation paper published earlier this year. They are contingent on further research, which will be started soon.

John Taynton, the organisation's corporate communications manager, said the organisation wanted to ensure air travel was as sustainable as possible in the region.

Low cost carriers increase passenger numbers

"Bristol Airport has problems with bus and rail links, but Exeter Airport is close to the M5 and the A30 and has good rail links. Exeter also has few problems for expansion."

"But Bristol is bigger and carries over 2 million passengers a year against Exeter's 500,000. Plus, the big operators fly from Bristol."

The RDA is also cautious about a proposal by the Sutton Harbour Company, which runs Plymouth Airport, to build a new �150m airport in south Devon.

Sutton's proposal for a 390-acre site east of Plymouth could, the company claim, create up to 11,000 jobs and generate about �400m a year for the South West.

The company's plans would mean redeveloping Plymouth Airport and Exeter Airport for housing.

"It is the view of all the RDAs that new airports are a high-risk strategy, said Mr Haynton.

"We want to build on the strengths of what we have."

With one main regional hub proposed, other airports in the region would continue with niche functions, the RDA suggests.

Newquay and Bournemouth to serve local markets

Plymouth to maintain its role as a key business airport, but with a questionable long-term future

London Heathrow to serve as the national hub airport

The RDA proposals echo those made by the Department of Transport in its consultation document published earlier this year.

Its draft strategy included developing Bristol Airport as a regional hub and using the region's existing infrastructure rather than building new airports.

A government air transport white paper is expected next year.