Why Leeds Bradford Airport Is The Go-To Choice For Yorkshire Travellers In 2025

Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) is gearing up for a huge year in 2025, and it’s not just about catching a flight anymore – it’s about transforming how Yorkshire travels.

From record-breaking passenger numbers to shiny new upgrades, this regional airport is stepping up in a big way. If you’re wondering what all the buzz is about, here’s everything you need to know.

Passenger numbers are climbing higher than ever

First off, let’s talk numbers. In 2024, over 4.24 million passengers flew from Leeds Bradford Airport – that’s a 5.8% increase compared to 2023. And it’s not just passengers on the rise; the number of flights also grew by 6.2%. On average, there were 87 flights taking off every single day.

Where were all these passengers heading? Well, Alicante on Spain’s Costa Blanca topped the charts as the most popular destination, with an extra 50,000 people heading there compared to the year before. Other fan favourites included Dublin and Palma de Mallorca, both of which remained strong contenders for Yorkshire’s sun-seeking and city-breaking travellers.

Plus, there’s more choice than ever when it comes to destinations. Leeds Bradford Airport added new routes and expanded flights to existing spots, making it even easier to plan your next getaway.

The terminal transformation you’ll love

Here’s where it gets exciting. LBA’s massive £100 million terminal regeneration is well underway, and the first phase is expected to be ready just in time for summer 2025 holidays. So, what can you expect?

• Spacious baggage collection areas – Say goodbye to that cramped, awkward luggage wait.
• Enhanced security facilities – Because no one likes long queues when you’re running for a plane.
• Two shiny new customer lounges – Perfect for kicking back with a drink before your flight.
• Expanded retail and dining options – More shops, more food, more fun.
• Improved accessibility – Making it easier for everyone to navigate the terminal.

The new extension isn’t just about convenience, though. LBA is also focused on sustainability, creating a modern, efficient space that aligns with their goal to be a leader in environmentally conscious airport operations.

And they’re not stopping there. Once phase one is complete, the focus will shift to redeveloping the existing terminal, bringing even more improvements in the years ahead.

“Faff Less. Holiday more.” – The campaign you’ll see everywhere

If you’re in Yorkshire, you’ll likely spot LBA’s new “Faff Less. Holiday More” campaign kicking off in January 2025. It’s a cheeky nod to how easy it is to travel from Leeds Bradford Airport. Whether it’s through bold outdoor ads or catchy radio spots, the message is clear: save yourself the hassle and enjoy a stress-free holiday starting from LBA.

A remarkable year for growth

LBA’s Aviation Development Manager, Tom Holdsworth, summed it up best:

“It’s been a remarkable year here at LBA, and it’s great to see numbers of both passengers and flights continue to increase at a good level. Our existing partners, including easyJet, Jet2, KLM, Ryanair, and Wizz Air, have continuously increased the number of flights and destination offerings for customers travelling from LBA throughout the year. Plus, we’ve welcomed SunExpress as a new airline partner.”

With all these big changes on the horizon, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting time for Leeds Bradford Airport and its passengers. Whether you’re jetting off for a summer escape or catching a city break, there’s never been a better time to start your journey from Yorkshire’s largest airport.

What’s next for Leeds Bradford Airport?

In spring/summer 2025, the new terminal extension opens its doors, promising a better, faster, and more enjoyable experience for travellers. But the airport isn’t stopping there. The next phase of redevelopment will focus on refreshing the existing terminal, ensuring the improvements keep coming.

With so much growth and ambition, it’s no wonder Leeds Bradford Airport is becoming the airport of choice for millions of travellers in the region. And honestly, why wouldn’t it be? More destinations, better facilities, and less faff – sounds like a win to us.

Ready to book your next trip? Keep an eye on LBA’s updates, and maybe even give them a follow on social media for all the latest. Yorkshire, your airport is levelling up.

Follow Leeds Bradford Airport on Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) to stay in the loop.