Controversial plans to build a new airport in Central Otago is coming under further scrutiny.

Eleven academics have penned an open latter against Christchurch Airport's plans to build an international airport on 750 hectares in Tarras.

They've joined the growing opposition from local residents.

Otago University tourism expert James Higham who brought the academics together told Tim Dower the airport would also completely change the face of Central Otago.

He says it also contradicts all sorts of other regional, national and global imperatives to decarbonise.

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