Teesside International Airport signed Armed Forces Covenant

Teesside Airport has signed the Armed Forces Covenant to offer its unwavering support to the Armed Forces community.

The airport has a proud military heritage dating back to its formation during the Second World War as RAF Middleton St George.

The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise from the nation to ensure that those who serve, or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, are treated fairly and with respect.

By signing this pledge, the Airport is committing to providing a fair and supportive environment for service personnel, veterans, and their families, both within the workplace and in the wider community.

Teesside is home to a number of Armed Forces veterans across the airport.

The Air Traffic Control tower recently welcomed two RAF veterans – Chris Plumb and Matt Westmorland – to its team.

Steve Land, Operations Director at Teesside International Airport, said: “We are honoured to sign the Armed Forces Covenant and stand alongside those who serve, or have served, in the Armed Forces.

“This pledge reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting the brave men and women who protect our nation.

“We are excited to play our part in ensuring they receive the respect and opportunities they have earned.”

The Airport is committed to ensuring equal opportunities in recruitment, career progression, and offering support tailored to the needs of the Armed Forces community.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen added: “Our Armed Forces personnel and veterans have sacrificed so much to keep our country safe, and it’s only right that we honour their dedication in every way we can.

“By signing the Armed Forces Covenant, the airport is reaffirming its commitment by ensuring those who have served have the opportunities, respect, and recognition they deserve.

“This is about more than just words – it’s about action, and we’re proud to stand by our military community by signing this pledge.”

After the war, the airport’s airfield was controlled by the RAF until it became Teesside International Airport in 1964.

The Middleton St George Memorial Association works to keep alive the memory of all those who served at RAF Middleton St George and maintain the memorial garden – and the Mynarski Memorial Statue – outside the former St George Hotel, which was previously the officer’s mess.