Exeter Airport sees summer passenger boost

Exeter Airport has reported continued steady growth with a 5% increase in passenger numbers over the summer period.

From April to October, 337,993 passengers travelled through the airport, an increase of 15,740 compared to the same period last year.

The summer season was marked by the successful launch of a new Ryanair route to Palma in Majorca, which contributed to the rise in passenger numbers, and August was ranked the busiest month when close to 57,000 passengers used the airport.

Looking ahead, Exeter Airport is preparing for further growth in 2025, as TUI has confirmed plans to base a second aircraft at the airport next summer.

This move is set to add 80,000 seats and introduce a new flight to Ibiza, along with additional services to popular destinations such as the Canaries, the Greek Islands, and Turkey.

Stephen Wiltshire, Managing Director of Exeter Airport, said: “The continued growth in passenger numbers is a testament to the hard work of our team and the appeal of Exeter Airport as a convenient gateway to 25 UK and overseas destinations for travellers from across the region.

“With TUI’s second aircraft arriving next summer and new routes being added, we’re excited to offer even more choice to local people flying from their local airport.”

This summer's achievements come on the back of Exeter Airport returning to profit for the first time since the pandemic in the 12 months leading up to March.

Earlier this year, the airport also earned recognition as one of the top five airports in the UK for customer service in a national consumer survey, underscoring its commitment to excellence in passenger experience.

Exeter Airport is owned and operated by Regional & City Airports (RCA), part of Rigby Group plc. RCA also owns and operates Norwich Airport and Bournemouth Airport and holds a management contract for Solent Airport.