Thousands flock to airport where VW is considering building factory

Thousands of people flocked to Open Hangar Day at the military reserve airport in Líně near Plzěn on Saturday, where Volkswagen is considering building a so-called "gigafactory" for electric car batteries. The organisers of the event say it is not a protest against the construction of the factory, but is rather intended to support the preservation of the airport and to make the public realize how sad it would be if the region were to lose it.

Transport Minister Martin Kupka also came to the site at the invitation of the organisers. He said that the construction of the factory is a great opportunity for Czechia and the transformation of its car industry.

The airport is closely associated with the history of aviation in West Bohemia, which started in Plzěn after the First World War. According to the organisers, the large number of visitors, estimated at around 15,000, is proof of the public's support and interest in the airport.

Volkswagen is due to announce by the end of March whether it will build the factory in Líně or rather in one of the other possible locations in either Poland, Slovakia or Hungary. Construction is slated to start at the end of 2024.