Bournemouth Airport is marking 85 years after recording the busiest year in its history.
The site began as RAF Hurn in August 1941, supporting the defence of southern England before moving to civilian control in 1944 and serving as London’s transatlantic airport until Heathrow opened 2 years later.
A record 1,395,783 passengers travelled through the airport in the year to April, 26% more than during the previous 12 months, while more than 40 destinations are now available from the regional base.
Jet2 is operating 2 based aircraft during its second summer and plans 22 routes next year, while TUI serves 16 destinations and Ryanair’s 20 routes include a new connection to Trapani in Sicily.
Managing director Steve Gill said the airport’s importance to the region had “remained constant”, while investment has delivered expanded passenger facilities and security screening that permits liquids in containers of up to 2 litres.
The airport also handles international freight through Cargo First and is hosting RAF aircraft while resurfacing takes place at RAF Brize Norton, extending its current role beyond scheduled passenger services.
