Public transport drive takes off

Call for public views on latest airport access plan.

More than a third of all passengers are using public transport to get to Edinburgh Airport, latest figures from the Capital’s gateway show.

The mode share of passengers travelling by bus has jumped from 28.9% in 2010 to 33.6% last year, exceeding the airport’s target of reaching 27% by 2011. The figures are published in the Airport’s Surface Access Strategy (ASAS) which outlines targets to increase the passenger public transport mode share, and reduce the average number of vehicle journeys per passenger. Edinburgh Airport is currently consulting on its latest Surface Access Strategy and is encouraging individuals and organisations to comment on the Consultation Document.

Edinburgh Airport Managing Director Jim O’Sullivan said: “Increasing the number of passengers arriving at the airport by public transport helps we reduce pollution and minimise road congestion. We’re working hard with all our public transport providers, to offer passengers a range of choices. That, plus the strength of our inbound tourism market, means that more of our passengers than ever before are choosing public transport to get to the airport.

“Any views or suggestions on how we can now go even further are very welcome as part of our consultation process on surface access.”

Other initiatives in the ASAS include the introduction of bus realtime information and passenger journey planning facilities, and a study to consider the feasibility of creating a new bus interchange facility on the A8, have been undertaken. Additional bus routes have been introduced, whilst existing routes have been enhanced.

The 2012 ASAS consultation document can be viewed here: http://www.edinburghairport.com/about-us/airport-expansion the consultation period ends on the 23 July 2012.