Leeds Bradford celebrates terminal launch

FOREIGN Secretary William Hague has officially opened Leeds Bradford International Airport’s new £11m passenger terminal.

The development provides a 65% increase in airside space over two floors, creating a new larger departure lounge, a range of new food and drink areas, and a walk-through tax and duty free store.

It has created an additional 2,500 sq m of airside space. The Yorkshire Premier Lounge has also been extended to provide a ‘business zone’ and ‘leisure lounge’.

Mr Hague said: “Regional airports can make a vital contribution to local and regional economies and Leeds Bradford is an excellent example of that, providing over £100m of value to the City Region, a figure set to grow by 10% with the introduction of the new British Airways services.
 
“Regional airports also have an important role to play in strengthening the national economy by ensuring that the UK remains one of the best connected countries in the world, so that we can compete successfully for economic opportunities in established and emerging markets.”

The official opening of the terminal comes in the same month that British Airways launched flights from the airport to Heathrow.

The airport’s commercial director, Tony Hallwood, said its management would now consider further investment at the airport.

Meanwhile, Leeds Bradford was the venue for an announcement that sees Monarch Airlines sponsor Leeds United’s North Stand.

Monarch launched two new winter routes to Grenoble and Munich at the weekend and 12 new routes for summer 2013.

Leeds United chief executive Shaun Harvey said: “We are delighted that Monarch will be working with the club to support its new routes flying from Leeds Bradford Airport. Their investment into the airport is extremely positive news for both the community and for the local economy with new jobs being created at the airport.

“Through our new partnership we aim to make Monarch the first choice carrier for European flights for Leeds United fans all across the UK and will be working closely with Monarch to deliver some exciting promotional fares and competitions to our fan base over the coming months.”