PASSENGER NUMBERS UP AGAIN AT BRISTOL AIRPORT

Passenger numbers at Bristol Airport continued to rise in July, with volumes up 2.19 per cent compared to the corresponding period last year. Over 637,000 passengers passed through the terminal last month, taking the total for the year to date to more than 3.2 million. Six out of seven months in 2010 have seen more passengers use the Airport than in the previous year, with April – when UK air travel was disrupted by ash from the Icelandic volcano – the only exception. The rise in passengers was achieved with fractionally fewer flights than in July 2009, indicating that airlines operated with high load factors. Shaun Browne, Aviation Director at Bristol Airport, said: “It is encouraging to see airlines flying aircraft at or close to full capacity, as it is not only good for business but reduces emissions per passenger as well. “However, the high level of demand seen so far this summer underlines the need to develop and enhance our facilities for passengers. We want to ensure we can continue to offer a friendly and efficient experience to travellers from across the South West and a warm welcome for visitors to the region.” Throughout the busy summer season, passengers are being asked to allow sufficient time at the airport to check-in, drop bags, clear security and board their flight. Browne continued: “We endeavour to make the journey through the Airport as quick and efficient as possible, but this may take longer when flying at the busiest times, especially between 06:00 and 07:30. “Passengers travelling at peak times are advised to arrive in the terminal at least two hours ahead of their scheduled time of departure to ensure all essential processes can be completed.” So far this year, Bristol Airport has opened a state-of-the-art ‘walk through’ tax and duty free store and a new 450m walkway linking the terminal to eight aircraft stands, reducing the need to bus passengers to and from flights. In May, North Somerset Council recommended approval of the Airport’s development plans which will see facilities further enhanced to enable a throughput of 10 million passengers per annum by 2020. Proposals include extensions to the existing terminal, car parking improvements, a public transport interchange with covered pedestrian access to the terminal, and additional aircraft stands. The planning application also includes provision for a £5.4 million contribution to regional transport schemes, improvements to bus services to the Airport, and a target of 15 per cent public transport usage In March, 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 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