BRISTOL AIRPORT EXPECTS BUSY EASTER

Travellers advised to allow time to ensure stress-free start to holiday weekend

Bristol Airport is advising passengers not to risk missing flights by ‘cutting it fine’ when travelling this Easter. Approximately 66,000 passengers are expected to pass through the terminal over the holiday weekend (2-5 April). The busy schedule, combined with ongoing work to enhance facilities, means departing passengers should allow the maximum time to check-in, clear security and board their flight. Check-in opens up to three hours ahead of the scheduled time of departure depending on the airline. Shaun Browne, Aviation Director at Bristol Airport, said: “We endeavour to make the journey through the airport as quick and stress-free as possible, but passengers should be aware that processes such as check-in, security search and boarding can take time, particularly for families or large groups. “Check in opens up to three hours ahead of departure, which leaves plenty of time to drop off bags and pass through security before relaxing in the departure lounge. Leaving it to the last minute might mean an extra hour in bed, but it could also be the difference between a great start to the Easter break and the disappointment of missing your flight.” A range of recently commenced routes coupled with strong load factors mean that this Easter will be significantly busier than 2009. Popular destinations include New York, with Continental Airlines’ flight fully booked on Good Friday, although some seats are still available across the rest of the weekend for those still making last minute travel plans. But it is not all one-way traffic. Bristol Airport is expecting an influx of visitors from around the world as travellers head for the South West to catch up with friends and family or enjoy the sights of the region. To encourage passengers to arrive early, a range of activities and offers will be available in the tax and duty free store. Selected chocolates will be available on a ‘buy one get one free’ basis, and food and drink tastings will run throughout the day. And for those wanting to start the holiday in style, mini-makeovers will be taking place in the cosmetics department. Work continues on a number of significant improvements to the airport, including a 450m long walkway linking the terminal to aircraft stands on the western apron. The walkway will reduce the need for buses to transfer passengers between the terminal building and arriving and departing planes. A state-of-the-art ‘walk through’ tax and duty free store will also open in the spring, with regional products showcased in a ‘Best of the West’ range. A new fleet of buses will also shortly begin operating an improved Flyer service between Bristol and the airport. Earlier this month Bristol Airport marked the tenth anniversary of its terminal building by unveiling a new brand identity to guide its business over the next decade. The new brand represents ‘people’, ‘place’ and ‘region’ – the three pillars on which the airport’s success rests – and promises ‘Amazing Journeys Start Here’. The airport celebrates its 80th anniversary in May, while Continental Airlines will mark five years of transatlantic flights from Bristol in the same month. The terminal is expected to handle its 50 millionth passenger towards the end of the year. Ends For further information please contact: James Gore, Bristol Airport, 01275 475447 / 07717 896315 Jacqui Mills, Bristol Airport, 01275 473615 / 07712 792915