Bournemouth Airport marks one million passenger milestone
Airport bosses say they have had a "bumper" summer season
Bournemouth Airport has welcomed its one millionth passenger in 2024.
It's the first time since 2008 that the airport will see more than a million passengers in a year.
Between April and October 840,210 passengers used Bournemouth Airport, an increase of nearly 103,000 compared to the same period last year.
The millionth passenger was surprised with champagne and flowers.
Lisa Gray and her partner Paul arrived on a flight from Faro in Portugal to the surprise reception.
Lisa said: "We love Bournemouth Airport. It’s our local airport, we live three miles away. It’s super-easy and super-friendly."
Airport bosses are preparing for a further surge in numbers in 2025.
Managing Director Steve Gill said: "We’re thrilled to see Bournemouth Airport becoming increasingly popular and a great alternative to the busy London hubs.
The rise in passenger numbers and anticipated future growth comes after a series of new route and investment announcements by the airport and airlines, including:
- TUI’s enhanced operations, with a second aircraft based at the airport this summer, adding an extra 60,000 seats.
- Ryanair’s growing presence, with a 23-route network that includes recently announced flights to Crete, Rhodes and Fuerteventura.
• Jet2’s imminent arrival, with 20 new routes launching from February 2025, covering popular destinations across Europe, the Canary Islands, and the Mediterranean.
The airport, which employs around 300 people, is also a key air cargo hub for e-commerce and supports the region's wider aviation sector with pilot training, military operations and maintenance.