City of Derry Airport has announced it is to enter into a new partnership with a private firm.
It is hoped the deal will end the financial burden on Londonderry ratepayers within seven years.
The airport currently costs Derry City Council £3.5m a year.
The council said in was in the final stages of discussions with a Balfour Beatty Group Company, about entering a management contract.
General Manager of Balfour Beatty, Clive Coleman, says he hoped their would be new routes from Derry.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
