Bristol Airport lays out plans for long-haul flights

Bristol Airport has announced its plans to expand and introduce direct long-haul flights to various destinations, including the Middle East and the east coast of America. Each year, Bristol Airport serves over 10 million passengers, and the airport aims to increase its capacity from 12 million to 15 million passengers annually over the next 12 years. This expansion will involve enhancing the airport's facilities and providing a wider range of flight options. Dave Lees, the chief executive of Bristol Airport, stated, 'We are always monitoring trends in air travel, and we have been pleasantly surprised by the continued desire for people to travel by air. ' However, the Bristol Airport Action Network has expressed disappointment with the latest expansion plans, labeling them as 'very disappointing. ' The proposed development is part of a larger initiative known as the 'masterplan to 2040,' which is expected to create over 37,000 jobs in the South West and South Wales, along with an additional 1,000 jobs directly at the airport. A spokesperson for the airport explained that the proposals are designed to 'meet the strong and growing demand of people in the region. ' The plans include constructing a larger terminal building, enhancing onsite catering options, adding a new hotel, expanding the runway to accommodate long-haul aircraft, improving transport capacity on the A38, and increasing parking facilities. Mr. Lees noted that there has been a noticeable rise in travel since the pandemic, stating, 'The masterplan will assess what further development may be necessary to meet this growing demand for air travel, and we welcome input from the public to help shape our plans. ' In the past, there have been protests against the airport's expansion. Protesters gathered outside the airport, holding a large banner that read 'Stop Bristol Airport Expansion. ' One protester described the growth as 'responsible,' explaining that the airport, located in North Somerset, is investing over £400 million to enhance customer experience and reduce carbon emissions, with a goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2030. The anticipated increase in passengers to 15 million per year would result in approximately 100,000 aircraft movements annually, representing an increase of nearly 15,000 flights. Jackie Head from the Bristol Airport Action Network criticized the latest plans, calling them 'very disappointing. ' She argued that the plans do not adequately consider the needs of local residents or the environmental impact. She claimed that the airport's projected economic benefits and job creation figures are 'misleading,' citing research that indicates the airport often exaggerates the number of new jobs and economic contributions. Ms. Head pointed out that studies show more tourists leave the UK to spend money than those who come to the UK, which is detrimental to the local economy. She also emphasized that in the coming years, there will need to be a reduction in aviation to meet net zero targets. The consultation period for the public to provide feedback will run until January 31, 2025, with a planning application expected to be submitted to North Somerset Council next year.