Bristol Airport has unveiled its completed Master Plan, detailing its long-term development strategy through to 2040, following a wide-ranging public consultation held between November 2024 and early 2025. Over 19,000 people reviewed the proposals online, more than 200 attended public events, and 2,381 individuals provided written feedback, all of which have informed the finalized plan.
Key Highlights:
Capacity & Connectivity
The airport intends to increase its passenger capacity to 15 million per year by the late 2030s, up from the current cap. Infrastructure enhancements will support up to 100,000 aircraft movements annually, rising from around 86,000 today. On peak days, the airport may handle as many as 35 extra flights.New Long-Haul Routes
Plans include a limited number of long-haul flights to the east coast of the United States and the Middle East, aimed at opening new tourism and business corridors. These routes would reduce the region’s dependence on London airports and provide more direct connections for outbound and inbound passengers.Economic Benefits
Expansion is expected to contribute approximately £3 billion in gross value added (GVA) to the regional economy and support the creation of 1,000 new jobs with a focus on communities like Weston‑super‑Mare and South Bristol. Notably, more than 70% of current airport staff are local residents.Transport & Infrastructure
A formal planning application is due later in 2025. It will include proposals for:Terminal expansion and improved baggage and immigration areas
New stands, apron and taxiway enhancements
Better internal road layouts and increased car parking capacity
Enhanced surface access, including bus priority lanes, upgrades to the A38 corridor, and coordination on regional mass transit options
Ancillary development such as hotels, offices, and rental car facilities
Environmental Commitments
The Master Plan aligns with government policy to optimise existing runway use. It includes sustainability measures, and the airport aims to achieve net-zero operations by 2030, with efforts to reduce emissions and mitigate environmental impacts.Next Steps
The responses to the consultation have shaped the final versions of the Master Plan. Later this year, detailed planning documents will be submitted to local authorities for approval, paving the way to build the infrastructure needed to reach the agreed 15 million passenger capacity.
This final Master Plan reflects a comprehensive vision for Bristol Airport’s future growth—balancing connectivity, local economic benefits, and environmental stewardship, while responding closely to stakeholder input.
To read more about the master plan visit the following link: https://www.bristolairport.co.uk/corporate/about-us/our-future/
