MANSTON Airport will have to wait until the New Year to learn if it is likely to be fined a hefty figure for allowing night flights to take place.

Thanet council debated the issue at its latest meeting but was unable to reach a decision due to lack of information.

The council’s 106 planning agreement stated that planes must not fly between 11pm and 7am unless they are carrying humanitarian aid. The council has agreed to just 12 flights a year.

Despite this agreement a number of night flights left Manston between August and October. Council members have now asked for specific information on each flight and they will look at the information during their next meeting in February.

Thanet council’s leader, Sandy Ezekiel, said: “Insufficient facts exist to enable the council to make a properly judged decision at this time. We are firmly committed to the 106 agreement and everything it says about night-time flying, but we require more detailed information.

“Members have decided to bring the matter back to the next meeting of full council on 19 February.

“This decision has cross-party support and shows members’ commitment to protecting the rights of local people, especially those living under the flight path.”