Leeds Bradford Airport Unveils £100 Million Terminal Extension
Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) has officially opened its new terminal building to the public, marking the end of the first phase of its £100 million expansion project. The upgraded terminal, which was opened on Tuesday, June 17, promises to enhance customer service and regional connectivity for passengers.
According to a report by the Daily Mail, the new terminal features a range of improved facilities, including a new baggage reclaim area and an upgraded passport control facility with advanced security technology. This technology is designed to ensure a "smoother and more secure journey" for passengers.
The terminal also boasts an impressive 83 per cent increase in seating, offering passengers more space, comfort, and clear views of the runway. In addition, passengers will have access to a broader range of food and drink offerings, including two premium lounges. The all-new Six Eight One Premium Lounge offers seasonal menus featuring fresh, locally sourced produce, and a relaxing space to unwind before boarding.
The Daily Mail reports that work on Phase 2 of the project is already underway, with a focus on refurbishing the existing terminal to further improve passenger experience and modernise existing terminal infrastructure. During this phase, passengers can expect some changes when departing from the airport, including scaffolding and hoardings at the front of the area, a relocated Meet & Greet parking area, and new zones for bus pick-up and drop-off.
Vincent Hodder, CEO of Leeds Bradford Airport, was quoted by the Daily Mail as saying: "We are delighted to see our new terminal extension open and operational today. It’s been an incredible journey to get here, and we know our customers are going to get a completely new experience from LBA from today. It’s an exciting time for us too; for our employees, stakeholders and business partners, the opening of this building is a huge achievement for all involved."
John Cunliffe, Commercial Director of Leeds Bradford Airport, also commented: "Today is a huge milestone for Leeds Bradford Airport. Our new terminal is officially open and ready to welcome passengers, offering improved facilities and enabling us to deliver an enhanced experience for passengers in the region. As we transition into Phase 2 of the project, the changes will impact the usual passenger flows, and we’d like to thank passengers in advance for their understanding."
The opening of the new terminal extension comes as other UK airports are also investing in expansion projects. In April, it was announced that Luton Airport is set to double its capacity after the government granted permission for its expansion. The transport secretary, Heidi Alexander, overruled planning inspectors who recommended rejecting the expansion over environmental concerns. Luton’s plans will see its existing terminal expanded and a whole new terminal built, as well as new taxiways. The airport is hoping to double its annual passenger numbers to 32 million by 2043.
The £100 million terminal extension at Leeds Bradford Airport is a significant investment in the airport’s infrastructure, and is expected to improve the overall passenger experience. As reported by the Daily Mail, the airport is committed to delivering an enhanced experience for passengers in the region, and the new terminal extension is a major step towards achieving this goal.
