Cardiff Airport unveils plan to double passenger numbers

Cardiff Airport has set out ambitious plans to double its passengers numbers to more than three million over the next 20 years.

Proposals include a new terminal building, a four-star on-site hotel, enhanced transport facilities and a new multi-storey car park.

It is inviting feedback for its ‘draft masterplan’, launched today by Wales First Minister Carwyn Jones together with transport secretary Ken Skates, airport chairman Roger Lewis and airport CEO Deb Barber.

The consultation period will run until September 14, after which the airport will announce a revised plan in the autumn.

Cardiff Airport acknowledged within its draft masterplan the need to attract new airlines, new routes and more choice for customers travelling to and from the region. Currently, 18 airlines operate out of Cardiff inlcuding Qatar, KLM, Flybe, Vueling and Ryanair.

It said it needed to enhance its ‘unique identify’ as the gateway to Wales. The airport also plans to develop its ‘green’ credentials and introduce ‘best in class’ customer facilities, including SMART technology.

First Minister Jones said: "These improvements are ambitious yet achievable and will enable the airport to continue its development of further aviation links to the rest of the UK, Europe and beyond which will improve its competitiveness and attractiveness as a gateway to international travel and trade.

"We look forward to working with the team at Cardiff Airport to deliver these exciting developments."

The airport’s chairman Roger Lewis added: "2018 has been a transformational year for Cardiff Airport and for Wales as we’ve already welcomed over 9% more passengers to the airport and more inbound visitors to the country than ever before.

"We have always been ambitious with our plans and this Draft Masterplan continues to show the confidence we have in our business and in the region. The airport plays a vital role in delivering for Wales and developing even further as a viable alternative gateway to the UK."

CEO Deb Barber added:"This Masterplan has been created to set out milestones up to the year 2040 that enable us to meet our vision for the future and position Cardiff Airport as a key part of the UK’s transport strategy.

"We have ambitious plans for growth which can only be achieved if we enhance our infrastructure and create a five-star airport experience for customers that’s efficient, modern and enjoyable.

"Today’s unveiling is an opportunity for us to embark on a period of engagement with stakeholders, customers and neighbours; so that we can gain insight, inform and shape Cardiff Airport’s future."