London Biggin Hill airport's plans to launch a £12m Aerospace and Technology College on site have been boosted, as the Greater London Authority (GLA) has agreed to provide major funding for the project.

Operated in partnership with London South East Colleges, the new facility aims to address the shortage of aerospace engineers and the wider skills needs of the aviation industry by training the next generation of mechanical, electronic and service engineers as well as technicians and ground crew professionals.

Biggin Hill chairman Andrew Walters says: “Our focus is on inspiring and training the aerospace industry professionals of tomorrow and we're delighted that with this investment, our vision can now take flight.”

London's deputy mayor for planning, regeneration and skills Jules Pipe adds: “The mayor and I are committed to helping Londoners gain the skills that the capital's businesses need. It is vital that we tackle the skills gap in the aviation industry and the London Aerospace and Technology College at Biggin Hill airport will help keep London at the cutting edge of aviation technology.”