I find it surprising Gary Smith, organiser for the GMB union (Opinion, May 9), is automatically against proposals which could create jobs at Shoreham Airport and beyond.

Many GMB members must be concerned about whether Gary's personal views reflect those of the union. If they do, they should be campaigning to shut Gatwick now.

There must and will be detailed studies on environmental, noise and safety matters before any expansion in services is allowed at Shoreham. The public would be consulted and there would also be a public inquiry.

Gary criticises the BAe 146 aircraft but any unsafe aircraft are grounded by the Civil Aviation Authority.

It's worrying Gary thinks the only employment airports create is a few jobs flipping burgers on minimum wages. Is that what he thinks his members do at airports?

He also misses the point that a revived airport would create jobs in the wider economy. In the longer term, most jobs created would probably not be at the airport itself.

The Shoreham proposals should get a sensible, informed discussion rather than an instant dismissal.

By the way, there are no plans for "massive" expansion. The nature of any expansion is to be discussed.

-Coun Mike Middleton, chairman, Shoreham Airport Board