A long-standing flight school is pulling out of Carlisle Lake District Airport.

Border Air Training, which has been based at the airport since 1991, said it would not be returning to normal operations after reviewing its options and impact on the business.

The airport has been under development for some time.

But owner Stobart Group announced last week the first flights had been postponed until September 3 because of a shortage of air traffic controllers.

Managing director Graeme Frater said: "Carlisle Airport not being open for the past six months has had a detrimental effect on our business.

"We reluctantly take the decision to shut our operation at Carlisle Airport permanently.

“This is hugely disappointing for everyone, especially our customers.

“We’re working hard to inform all customers and we completely appreciate the frustration this news may cause.”

The firm, which was acquired by Cloud Global Group last year, said it was disappointed how Stobart Group managed and communicated the runway upgrades.

Another business that was based on the site has spoken about the situation.

Carlisle Flight Training said it was "yet another let-down" for the businesses, customers and individuals who organised to fly this week.

When asked why flight schools and light aviation activities could not commence on Monday - despite not needing commercial air traffic controllers in place for their activities - Stobart Group said it was undertaking "further and final tests".

Kate Willard, head of corporate projects, said: “We are taking this opportunity to conduct further and final tests on all technical and operational matters relating to the airport.

"This extensive process may impact some of the businesses, including flight schools, which operate out of the airport.

"We would therefore like to thank them for their patience, understanding and continued support for our shared project.

“It is important that we get everything absolutely right for September 3.

"The growing global shortage of qualified air traffic control staff available to meet training and regulatory deadlines resulted in the airport being unable to open."