Leeds Bradford Airport unveils £200 million Vision 2030 Strategy to boost Yorkshire’s connectivity
Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) has unveiled its ambitious Vision 2030 strategy, which includes a £200 million investment from the private sector aimed at transforming passenger experience, driving sustainable growth and enhancing Yorkshire’s international connectivity. This strategic plan is set to generate up to 5,500 new jobs and contribute nearly £1 billion to the local economy, with an anticipated growth to seven million passengers per year by 2030.
The Vision 2030 strategy is a significant step forward, building upon LBA’s recent LBA:REGEN development.
The plan includes a strong focus on sustainability, aligning with the airport’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030 – one of the most ambitious targets of any UK airport.
Key initiatives include the decarbonisation of transport links, investment in solar-powered infrastructure on-site and the expansion of electric vehicle (EV) charging facilities.
The airport also reaffirms its support for the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s mass transit system proposals, which aim to connect the airport to an integrated cycling, walking, bus, and rail network.
A central feature of the Vision 2030 plans is the expansion of terminal floorspace by 38%, alongside significant investment in the airfield to introduce up to ten new aircraft stands. These new stands are intended to attract quieter, more efficient aircraft, boost the number of destinations served and enhance existing routes.
The airport is also keen to secure additional routes to European hub airports, as well as new destinations in the North Atlantic and the Middle East.
Vincent Hodder, CEO of Leeds Bradford Airport, described the strategy as “a new era of travel for the region,” highlighting its potential to enhance international connectivity, support local economic growth, and attract global investment. He emphasised the airport’s commitment to a net-zero carbon future, stating,
Our commitment is bold and ambitious, but we are firm in our stance to build a net-zero carbon future for the airport.
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, praised the Vision 2030 strategy,
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, Leeds Bradford Airport has also outlined longer-term ambitions, including the potential development of a new purpose-built terminal, the construction of a new hotel within walking distance of the airport, and the expansion of specialist air freight services.
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