The report says 2,000,000 people will use the airport within 30 years

A new report says Exeter Airport, which is owned by Devon County Council, is vital to the county's economy and a new terminal is needed to keep up with demand.

Passenger numbers are up 3% to 345,000 and it is forecast they will soar to 2,000,000 within 30 years.

Now Devon County Council is being advised that a major private sector investment is needed to fund the airport's expansion.

Exeter International is a real success story Councillor Richard Westlake

The report, to be considered by the executive next week, recommends hiring specialist consultants to advise on the sale of both the airport and the adjoining Skypark site, which is earmarked for business development.

The airport provides 2,500 jobs to local people either directly or indirectly and is the headquarters and main UK maintenance base for airline Flybe.

'Exciting future'

Compared to the 345,000 people a year flying from Exeter, 100,000 people use Plymouth's facilities and 80,000 fly from Newquay.

"Exeter International is a real success story and there are few, if any, local authority owned airports which can match its record," said councillor Richard Westlake, chairman of Exeter International Airport's management board.

"Flybe's new routes and the RDA's support for Exeter as the main airport for the far South West underline that it has an exciting future

" This is a big responsibility and seeking specialist advice on the potential for private sector investment warrants serious consideration," he said.