BIGGIN Hill Airport says the Olympic Games in 2012 will boost the borough’s economy and bring long-term benefits to the surrounding area.

The airport is eager to be a key gateway to the games after a request was made to landlord Bromley Council to extend opening hours for the July and August period in 2012.

Airport director Peter Lonergan says the Olympics will offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attract new businesses.

The airport claims that last year the council received almost £1.2m from airport revenue.

Mr Lonergan said: “I don’t think that many people realise how much income for the council the existence of the airport generates.

“We need the local community to understand and to be supportive of our Olympic plans so that we can make the very best of this short-term event to win a legacy of longer term and lasting benefits for the community.”