Bristol Airport launches consultation on 2040 masterplan to expand capacity and boost regional connectivity

Bristol Airport (BRS) has launched a consultation outlining its masterplan for growth through to 2040, aiming to meet the increasing demand from travellers in the region. The plans include expanding connections and introducing new destinations, with a limited number of longer-haul flights to locations such as the east coast of the United States and the Middle East. The proposed development is expected to generate over 37,000 jobs across the South West and South Wales, including an additional 1,000 roles at the airport itself, with a focus on areas like Weston-super-Mare and South Bristol. Starting on 25 November 2024, the two-month consultation invites the public to help shape these future plans. A dedicated website provides further details, including an interactive map, with information also being shared with local residents this week.

Dave Lees, Chief Executive Officer, Bristol Airport said:

“We constantly look at trends in air travel and we’ve been pleasantly surprised that people want to continue to travel by air. We’ve seen since the pandemic a real resurgence in terms of people wanting to connect with friends and family across Europe as well as across the world and that will inform our plans as we go forward over the coming years.

“The masterplan will look at what further development might be required to meet this growing demand for air travel and we’d welcome input from people to help shape our plans.”

What are the Proposals?

• Terminal extension: A larger terminal building, with improved walkways directly serving aircraft and so reducing passenger transport to aircraft by bus. To further improve the customer experience, travellators would be installed.
• Supporting facilities: Improved on-site facilities including retail, food and beverage and an additional hotel, as well as more space for flight catering, engineering and other requirements for airport businesses.
• Airfield: New taxiways, apron extensions and additional aircraft stands. A short runway improvement – around the size of one and a half football pitches – will enable longer-range aircraft, serving a limited number of long-haul destinations and more efficient short-haul flights that will continue to be the majority of flights for the foreseeable future. The runway improvement could help reduce noise from departing aircraft to the west.
• Transport: Capacity improvements on the A38 and improvements to public transport connections to the Airport are proposed.
• Parking provision: Plans to increase car parking provision to the north and south of the Airport.

The consultation runs from 25 November 2024 to 31 January 2025. People can find out more about the Airports proposals and provide feedback at www.bristolairport.co.uk/future-plans