🚀 Exciting news from Cardiff Airport! Passenger numbers are on the rise, edging closer to the one million milestone. This year, 928,000 travellers have passed through the Rhoose-based airport, marking a 5.3% increase from the previous year. 🛫
While still not quite back to the pre-pandemic glory of 1.6 million passengers, there’s a noticeable buzz of optimism. The increase points to growing confidence in airlines like TUI and Ryanair, who’ve ramped up their operations. Ryanair celebrated a decade at Cardiff with its largest-ever summer schedule, and there’s more to come this winter with flights to Alicante, Dublin, and Tenerife. 🌍
But here’s the big picture: Cardiff Airport, although loss-making since the Welsh Government acquired it for £52m in 2013, is vital for Wales. It adds £200m in economic value and with Welsh Government planning a £200m investment over the next decade, the airport aims to attract more airlines and diversify into aircraft maintenance.
This focus on growth is timely, as the competition heats up. Bristol Airport’s legal challenge over the £200m investment funding may shake things up, but Cardiff is keen to keep its wings level.
British Airways’ maintenance operations have long been a mainstay, and regardless of passenger services, this site remains crucial. Plus, new routes are launching, with TUI basing more aircraft seasonally, and the airport is in talks to revive the Cardiff to Edinburgh service.
With a new chief, Jon Bridge, known for his stellar track record in retail and transport, the future looks bright for Wales’ national airport. 🌟 The goal? Surpass two million passengers by 2035, creating an even better travel hub right on our doorstep.
Let’s support and celebrate our local gateway to the world as it takes flight towards a promising future! ✈️✨
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