Inside busy UK airport's new £100m terminal

One of the UK's busiest airports has opened a £100 million terminal extension. The new 9,500 square metre, three-storey build at Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) officially commenced operations on Tuesday, with more seats, new refreshment outlets and runway views. LBA has recently been at the centre of an apparent change of heart from Rachel Reeves, who once opposed proposals for a new terminal over environmental and noise concerns. But the Chancellor now supports an expansion, saying "the way we fly has changed". The airport said: "We're delighted to announce that our brand new terminal extension is now open to all passengers!

"Our £100 million expansion has 83% more seating, brand new food and drink outlets, and views straight out onto the runway." This is the first phase of a wider project, with a refurbishment of the existing terminal expected to be complete in Winter 2026. The contract for this stage has been awarded to Farrans Construction.

Officials added: "We're so excited for passengers to finally experience our amazing new facilities as well as make a start on phase 2 of the project." Phase 2 works are set to be delivered in "multiple sub-phases to minimise disruption to customers".

The airport added: "Improvements include the creation of new staircases, lifts and escalators to provide an open plan feel which will complement the new lighter and brighter terminal extension.

"Remodelled internal spaces will allow improved passenger movement and there will be brand new security and arrivals facilities, World Duty Free and shops, bars and restaurants.

"By 2030, the regeneration has the potential to create 1,500 new direct jobs at LBA and 4,000 new indirect jobs, as well as contribute a total of £940 million to the local economy."

Vincent Hodder, Chief Executive of Leeds Bradford Airport, said: "We're delighted to be working with Farrans on Phase 2 of our LBA: REGEN project.

"We've already created a strong working relationship with the team on Phase 1, and as we transition into Phase 2, we're excited to be able to take our customers along with us on this journey.

"It's also an opportunity to let our customers know that while this important work gets underway, there will be temporary changes to the terminal while we deliver this new and improved customer experience.

"LBA: REGEN is the first major improvement to our terminal since its opening in 1968 and is long overdue. It's vitally important to upgrade LBA to the world-class facility Yorkshire deserves."