Lois Larson
Bristol Airport (IATA: BRS, ICAO: EGGD) is an international airport located in North Somerset, about 13 km southwest of Bristol city centre. The airport has undergone several developments and expansions since its opening in 1957, including the addition of new destinations and flights. In 2023, Bristol Airport announced a £60 million expansion plan, including the construction of a new transport hub and car park. The airport aims to enhance transportation options and services for its passengers with this project. With these ongoing developments and an increase in passenger numbers, travellers may wonder if Bristol Airport has returned to normal operations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Current status | Operational |
| Expansion plans | Ongoing; construction of a £60 million transport hub and car park |
| Transport options | Bus interchanges, coach bays, multi-storey car park |
| Passenger capacity | 8.7 million (2018); 8.9 million (2019); 12 million (planned) |
| Airlines | easyJet, Ryanair, TUI Airways, Aer Lingus Regional, Pegasus Airlines, Jet2, KLM, Swiss, Wizz Air |
| Accommodations | On-site hotel (Hampton by Hilton), nearby hotels (Holiday Inn, Acorns Guest House) |
| Location | Lulsgate Bottom, North Somerset, England |
| Distance from Bristol city centre | 7 nautical miles (13 km; 8.1 mi) |
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What You'll Learn
Bristol Airport expansion plans
Bristol Airport, located in southwest England, has unveiled expansion plans aimed at accommodating growing passenger demand and improving regional connectivity. The airport targets an increase in annual passenger capacity to 15 million by 2036, up from the current limit of 12 million.
To achieve this, the airport has proposed several key developments as part of its 'Masterplan 2040'. Firstly, terminal space is set to almost double from 70,000 square metres to 130,000 square metres, allowing for improved food and retail spaces. This expansion will also include the construction of a new hotel, with a planning application for a 251-room hotel approved in 2010, and a subsequent revision for a 201-room hotel with a 50-room addition approved in 2014. The hotel opened for bookings in January 2017.
Another significant aspect of the expansion plan is the proposed 150-metre runway extension, which will enable the airport to accommodate larger aircraft capable of serving new long-haul routes to destinations such as New York, Dubai, North America, and the Middle East. The extension will remain within the existing airport boundaries, and the airport has stated that it plans to reduce reliance on London airports, which currently attract 10 million passengers annually from Bristol’s catchment area.
In addition to the terminal and runway expansions, Bristol Airport has also announced improvements to its transport infrastructure. This includes the construction of a £60 million transport hub and car park, which will provide over 2,000 parking spaces and one of the region's largest bus interchanges, significantly enhancing transportation options for passengers.
However, the expansion plans have faced resistance from local communities and environmental groups. In 2018, 84% of North Somerset residents who commented rejected the expansion plan, particularly the extension of car parking areas onto protected land. Protests were organised by groups such as Extinction Rebellion, culminating in the North Somerset Council voting to reject the plan in February 2020. The airport appealed, and after a series of legal challenges, the expansion plan was ultimately approved in May 2023.
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Transport to and from the airport
Bristol Airport, located 7 nautical miles (13 km or 8.1 miles) southwest of Bristol city centre, offers a range of transport options for passengers travelling to and from the airport.
The Airport Flyer bus service provides a quick and easy connection between the airport and Bristol or Weston-super-Mare. The Bristol service operates 24 hours a day, with buses arriving as frequently as every 8 minutes. This route takes passengers through Bedminster to Bristol Temple Meads and Bristol Bus & Coach Station. The Weston service runs daily, with departures up to every 30 minutes during peak times, and covers Worle, Congresbury and Cleeve. Tickets for the Airport Flyer can be purchased on any First Bus in the Bristol or Weston Zone, allowing passengers to connect with the Airport Flyer at no extra cost.
In addition to the Airport Flyer, there are other bus and coach services available. National Express provides a regular coach service to Newport and Cardiff, while the Stagecoach Falcon service connects the airport to Taunton, Exeter and Plymouth. Local bus connections can be made from Bristol Bus Station, located in the city centre, with services operating across the UK.
For those travelling by train, the Airport Flyer also enables access to the rail network from Bristol Temple Meads, Weston-super-Mare and Worle stations. Train tickets can be purchased from the rail ticket machine on the Bristol Airport Arrivals concourse.
In terms of future developments, Bristol Airport announced in September 2023 that it would be commencing expansion plans, including the construction of a £60 million transport hub and car park. This project will include a large bus interchange, significantly enhancing transportation options for passengers.
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Bristol Airport hotels
Bristol Airport has an on-site hotel, Hampton by Hilton Bristol Airport, which is a 5-minute walk from the airport terminal. The hotel offers a restaurant and bar, free hot breakfast, and free WiFi.
In 2010, planning permission was granted for a 251-room hotel, and in 2014, a revised planning application was submitted for a 201-room hotel, with a 50-room addition to be built later. The 201-room hotel, operated by Hampton by Hilton, opened for bookings in 2017.
Other nearby hotels include:
- Beechwood, located 6.3 miles from Ashton Court and 7.4 miles from Bristol Temple Meads Station. It is within walking distance of the airport and offers free WiFi and breakfast.
- Airport Tavern Accommodations, located in Felton and easily accessible from the airport via shuttle bus. Each room comes with a flat-screen TV and a kettle.
- Tall Pines Lodges, located in Lulsgate Bottom, 7.7 miles from Ashton Court and 8.7 miles from Bristol Temple Meads Station. The property offers a bar and free private parking.
- Redhill House, located minutes from Bristol International Airport in the North Somerset countryside. The hotel offers spacious rooms and luxury facilities.
- Holiday Inn Bristol Airport, located 2 miles from Bristol Airport and 12 miles from Bristol City Centre. The hotel offers bright bedrooms with 32-inch TVs and friendly staff.
These hotels offer convenient options for travellers looking for accommodations near Bristol Airport, providing easy access to the airport and, in some cases, additional amenities such as free WiFi, breakfast, and parking.
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Bristol Airport flight delays and cancellations
Bristol Airport (IATA: BRS, ICAO: EGGD) is an international airport serving Bristol, England, and the surrounding areas. It is one of the UK's busiest airports, handling over 8.9 million passengers in 2019.
Regarding flight delays and cancellations, the current delay status at Bristol Airport is classified as "very low". However, it is always a good idea to check the status of your specific flight for any last-minute changes or updates.
Bristol Airport has experienced significant growth in passenger numbers and has embarked on expansion plans to enhance transportation services and accommodate more passengers. In September 2023, the airport announced a £60 million investment in a transport hub and car park, which will include one of the region's largest bus interchanges and over 2,000 new parking spaces.
In addition to infrastructure developments, Bristol Airport is also expanding its flight offerings. In 2025, the airport introduced new destinations and flights, including a Bristol-Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen service operated by Pegasus Airlines, connecting passengers to Europe, Central Asia, North Africa, and the Middle East.
To stay informed about the latest updates, passengers can refer to Bristol Airport's official website, which provides information on arrivals, departures, flight deals, and travel tips, such as security guidelines and pre-arrival checklists.
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Bristol Airport parking
Bristol Airport offers a range of parking options to suit different budgets and preferences. The airport recommends booking parking in advance, as it is typically cheaper and guarantees a parking space.
The Silver Zone car park is the most affordable option, where travellers can park, check-in, and drop off their keys before taking a bus to the terminal. The Multi-Storey Car Park is the most convenient option, located just a few minutes' walk from check-in. There is also a Meet and Greet service, which allows travellers to drop off their car at the terminal and be on their way.
Short-stay parking starts from £5 for up to 20 minutes, while long-stay parking can be as low as £6.74 per day when booked in advance. The airport guarantees that booking directly through their website will provide the best price, and they will price-match if a lower price is found within 24 hours of booking.
In September 2023, Bristol Airport announced a £60 million expansion plan, including the construction of a new car park with over 2,000 parking spaces and one of the region's largest bus interchanges. This project is expected to enhance transportation options and services for passengers.
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Frequently asked questions
It is important to know the Minimum Connection Time (MCT) when booking a ticket with a connecting flight. The MCT is also important when claiming compensation for a missed connection. The minimum time needed for connecting flights in Bristol Airport is 30 minutes for both domestic and international flights.
Some hotels are inside the airport building, while others are a short distance away. Here are some options:
- Hampton by Hilton Bristol Airport: from 105 EUR per night
- Acorns Guest House: from 44 EUR per night
- Holiday Inn Bristol Airport: from 73 EUR per night
Public transportation is not always readily available at the airport, and taxis can be expensive. It is recommended to check all transport alternatives before your flight to ensure you choose the best option. The Airport Flyer Express takes approximately 35 minutes to get to the city centre.
Bristol Airport is the base for easyJet, Ryanair, TUI Airways, and Aer Lingus Regional. Other airlines that operate from Bristol Airport include Jet2, KLM, Swiss, and Wizz Air.
In September 2023, Bristol Airport announced expansion plans, including the construction of a £60 million transport hub and car park. The project includes the creation of a large bus interchange and will increase parking spaces and coach bays. In November 2024, the airport proposed further expansion plans, including direct long-haul flights to the Middle East and East Coast of America, with a capacity increase to 15 million passengers per year.
