Improvement works announced at Cardiff Airport

Cardiff Airport has unveiled plans to introduce a series of improvements to the terminal building over the winter months, with a focus on creating a better environment and enhancing the overall customer experience.

These improvements have been planned for completion by next summer – the airport’s busiest time – and are the first developments following a Welsh Government loan to the airport.

A string of initiatives are to be launched, or are already underway, to improve the customer journey and raise standards in line with what’s expected of 21st Century airports. The first phase of these to be undertaken before summer next year includes:

• a new and expanded security area to accommodate new technology and more passengers, more swiftly
• installation of up to date technology in the terminal building
• a new taxi booking and reception facility in arrivals
• changes to drop off and pick up areas
• refurbishment and redecoration of facilities.

Jon Horne, Cardiff Airport’s Chief Executive, said: “Progress is still about growing the number of flights and destinations and ensuring the airport is easy to get to; making the airport a more pleasant and enjoyable experience is also now in hand. We’ve listened to what the people of Wales want from their Airport and we’ve been working to deliver this and drive standards up.”

Mr Horne continues: “One aspect our customers have asked us to improve is the process for dropping off and picking people up from the Airport. From spring 2014 with the use of new technology, it will be a lot easier- and free of charge.”

Commenting on the developments, The Chairman of Cardiff Airport, Lord Rowe-Beddoe said: “There is a genuine desire among business and leisure travellers alike to see Cardiff Airport grow and thrive. Importantly, we have halted the decline in passengers of previous years and achieved growth of 9% year on year during the summer. There is more to be done and we are pleased that our plans are now being implemented.”