One of UK's busiest airports opens brand new £100 million terminal extension
Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) has announced the official opening of its new terminal building to the public.
From Tuesday, 17 June, all passengers arriving and departing via the airport will get an exclusive first look at the upgraded terminal, as the opening marks the end of the £100 million project's first phase.
Passengers will benefit from upgraded terminal facilities, all of which aim to enhance customer service and regional connectivity.
This includes a new baggage reclaim area and an upgraded passport control facility with advanced security technology, designed to ensure a 'smoother and more secure journey.'
The terminal also brings an impressive 83 per cent increase in seating, offering passengers more space, comfort and clear views of the runway.
In addition, passengers will be provided with more variety and choice than ever as the expanded terminal brings in a broader range of food and drink offerings.
For a touch of luxury, passengers can now access two premium lounges, including the all-new Six Eight One Premium Lounge, which offers seasonal menus featuring fresh, locally sourced produce, and a relaxing space to unwind before boarding.
Work on Phase 2 of the project is already in motion, with a focus on refurbishing the existing terminal to further improve passenger experience and modernise existing terminal infrastructure.
Throughout Phase 2, passengers should expect some changes when departing from the airport.
Upon arrival at the terminal, passengers will notice scaffolding and hoardings at the front of the area, as well as a relocated Meet & Greet parking area, and new zones for bus pick-up and drop-off.
A dedicated webpage on the LBA website will be regularly updated with information throughout the work and can be accessed here.
Vincent Hodder, CEO, Leeds Bradford Airport said: 'We are delighted to see our new terminal extension open and operational today.
'It has 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 commented: 'Today is a huge milestone for Leeds Bradford Airport.
'Our new terminal is officially open and ready to welcome passengers, offering improve 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.'
Meanwhile, in April, it was announced 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. Currently, about 16.7 million travellers use Luton Airport every year, which is the fourth largest airport in the London area.
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