Bristol Airport opens £60m interchange to boost bus and coach travel options

Credit: Bristol Airport

Bristol Airport (BRS) has officially opened one of the region’s largest public transport interchanges, aiming to encourage more passengers and staff to travel by bus or coach. The £60 million Public Transport Interchange (PTI), part of the airport’s £400 million transformation programme, is now handling around 250 public transport movements each day.

Located on top of a new four-storey car park, the PTI features 16 bus and coach bays, up from just five previously. The new facility includes a covered bus canopy, sheltered waiting areas, live transport information screens, and level access to the terminal via a new bridge. Rail customers can also now purchase combined Airport Flyer and train tickets.

The project provided a major boost to the local economy, creating 120 jobs at its peak and over 60 permanent roles. Local suppliers were prioritised, with 30% located within a 50-mile radius, and apprentices from Weston College took part in the build.

Opened by Cllr Mike Bell, North Somerset Council leader, Sadik Al-Hassan MP and Bristol Airport CEO Dave Lees, the PTI is already showing results. More than 1 million passengers used the A1 Flyer service in 2024, and 300,000 used the A3. The A1 saw a 44% increase in use year-on-year.

Lees said: “We’re delighted to open the Public Transport Interchange ahead of schedule and on budget, transforming our customers’ experience during the busy summer holidays. This demonstrates our commitment to net zero operations, and to encouraging sustainable travel.” He confirmed the A1 and A3 Flyer buses will go fully electric by 2026.

The site reused over 100,000 tonnes of materials and trialled the UK’s first Volvo EC230 electric excavator.

Passengers can now access modernised facilities, including enlarged drop-off and pick-up zones, rest areas, live flight and transport information, and a larger M&S. Taxis can operate from level four, and facilities for passengers with reduced mobility have also been improved.

Cllr Mike Bell added: “The opening of the new Public Transport Interchange marks a major milestone. Travelling to and from the airport is now easier, more convenient, and more sustainable.”

Sadik Al-Hassan MP said: “It’s a big step forward for public transport capacity in North Somerset. The new facilities mean it’s now much better to travel by bus or coach.”

Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, said the facility “tripled the number of bays” and hinted at further improvements in regional connectivity ahead of a new transport vision this autumn.

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