 A preferred bidder is expected to be named in October |
Six preferred bidders have been selected by Devon County Council as potential buyers of Exeter Airport. The council decided in 2004 to sell most of its shares in the airport because it was unable to afford the investment needed to develop it.
The second-round shortlist was chosen from 58 interested parties. The council hopes a sale can be completed before Christmas.
The airport is expected to exceed 1m passengers this year.
Council leader Brian Greenslade said: "I think that fact that we had 58 expressions of interest just shows just how strong the competition is."
A local environmental campaign group has been formed, calling for an independent inquiry into the airport's growth.
But business leaders in the region have said it is good news for the economy and employment.
The names of the businesses on the new shortlist are not being announced at this stage.
One-Minute World News 
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