TUI and Ryanair expansion boosts passenger numbers at Bournemouth and Exeter
The expansion of TUI and Ryanair flights has seen passenger numbers soar at Bournemouth and Exeter Airport over the summer.
Regional and City Airports (RCA) Group, which manages the airports along with Norwich Airport, recorded almost 1.5 million travellers between April and October, up from 1.31 million in the same period last year – an increase of 13.4%.
The summer growth builds on a 15% rise in passenger numbers reported for the year ending March 2024.
Bournemouth Airport led the increase with a 14% surge, welcoming 840,210 summer passengers, up by 103,000 compared to the previous year. The increase positions the airport to surpass one million passengers in 2024, a milestone not achieved since 2008.
Contributing factors include TUI’s expansion, which added a second aircraft and 60,000 additional seats this summer, as well as the continued growth of Ryanair’s 20-route network.
[AuthorRecommendedPosts]RCA is currently investing tens of millions of pounds in Bournemouth Airport’s infrastructure to prepare for Jet2 and Jet2holidays’ new operations. Starting in February 2025, Jet2 will launch 20 routes from Bournemouth with two aircraft, followed by a third aircraft for summer 2026.
Exeter Airport also experienced positive growth, recording a 5% rise to 338,000 passengers. This was boosted by a new Ryanair service to Palma and is expected to accelerate next year with the introduction of a second TUI aircraft and 80,000 additional seats, along with new routes and increased frequency on many services.
Andrew Bell, chief executive of RCA, commented: “These results highlight the strength of regional airports in providing essential choice and convenience to their local communities. Our airports have continued to innovate and adapt, and this growth reflects the dedication and resilience of our teams. We’re proud to see such strong performance across the board.”
RCA is part of Rigby Group plc, the 12th largest family-owned business in the UK, boasting a consolidated turnover of £3.5bn. For the year to March 2024, RCA saw pre-tax profits soar to £14.24m from £1.31m on the back of a 20% rise in revenue.
