LEEDS Bradford Airport (LBA) has unveiled an ambitious strategy to create thousands of new jobs and contribute nearly £1bn to the local economy.

Hailed as a "new era of travel" the ‘Vision 2030’ strategy highlights ambitions to secure more routes to European hub airports with onward connectivity, as well as new destinations in the North Atlantic and Middle East.

The strategy signals plans for £200 million of private sector investment to improve passenger experience and drive sustainable growth over the coming decade.

Airport bosses say this will create economic growth opportunities and enhance international connectivity for Yorkshire. The plans will create up to 5,500 new jobs, said LBA, and contribute a total of nearly £1 billion to the local economy as the airport reaches an anticipated seven million passengers a year by 2030.

The airport plans to decarbonise transport links, invest in on-site solar-powered infrastructure, and establish more EV charging facilities.

 

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LBA has also reaffirmed its commitment to support West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s proposals for a mass transit system, connecting the airport to an integrated cycling, walking, bus, and rail plan.

As part of the Vision 2030 plans, LBA will be increasing terminal floorspace by 38 per cent, as well as making investments in the existing airfield to create up to 10 new aircraft stands for overnight LBA-based aircraft.

These stands are intended to attract airline partners to base quieter and more efficient planes, as well as provide options to introduce new destinations and build upon existing routes.

Vincent Hodder, CEO of Leeds Bradford Airport, said: “The launch of this LBA Vision 2030 marks a new era of travel for the region.

“This transformative strategy will play a vital role in facilitating trade links for local businesses, creating thousands of new jobs, and attracting international investment to Yorkshire.

“Our commitment is bold and ambitious, but we are firm in our stance to build a net-zero carbon future for the airport.

“With this comprehensive plan in place, we are confident that LBA can continue to play a significant role in improving international connectivity for the region and supporting local economic growth for many years to come.”

West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin added: “Leeds Bradford Airport's ‘Vision 2030’ document clearly states how the airport will improve Yorkshire’s connection to the rest of the world.

“This substantial private investment will benefit local communities and the wider Yorkshire region, serving as a catalyst for considerable, long-term economic growth. The airport’s plans promise to create a range of skilled jobs and bolster connectivity among key international markets, creating new opportunities for Yorkshire business overseas.”

“The commitment to net zero carbon emissions for the airport’s ground operations is a great first step.

“Industry-wide, there’s much still to do to decarbonise aviation as a whole, and I look forward to seeing how Leeds Bradford can contribute to that.

"We have performed competitively as a region for several decades, despite longstanding issues with connectivity. But, alongside my plan for significantly improved public transport in a better-connected West Yorkshire, now is the perfect time to improve the international gateway to our region.”

Looking beyond 2030, LBA has pointed towards longer-term ambitions for a new purpose-built replacement terminal, the construction of a new hotel within walking distance of the airport, and the potential growth of specialist air freight.