Passenger growth takes off as Cardiff Airport enjoys one of its ‘strongest summers in recent years’
Passenger growth takes off as Cardiff Airport enjoys one of its ‘strongest summers in recent years’
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Cardiff Airport has reported one of its most successful summer seasons in recent years, with passenger numbers rising and airlines expanding their operations from Wales’ national airport.
In the 12 months to the end of September 2025, 928,000 passengers passed through the airport, a 5.3% increase on the previous year, with more seats filled on services across key routes.
The airport said the figures reflected renewed confidence from major airline partners TUI and Ryanair, both of which have continued to invest in their Welsh operations.
Ryanair marked 10 years of flying from Cardiff this summer with its biggest-ever schedule, offering a wider choice of European destinations. The low-cost carrier will also expand its winter services, operating flights to Alicante, Dublin and Tenerife.
TUI is also ramping up its presence, basing a second aircraft at Cardiff for winter 2025 and adding new destinations including Cancún and Fuerteventura. For ski enthusiasts, Crystal Ski Holidays will return to Chambéry in the French Alps and add a new destination in Salzburg, Austrian Alps.
Looking further ahead, TUI plans to base a fourth aircraft at Cardiff for summer 2026, launching new routes to Faro and Hurghada, while Fuerteventura will continue into the summer season following its winter debut.
However, the airport said it was “disappointed” that Loganair will withdraw its Cardiff–Edinburgh service from January 2026 due to operational reasons beyond its control. The route has been one of the most popular domestic links from Wales, and discussions are already under way with other airlines to restore the connection.
Cardiff Airport is also nearing completion of its Runway Rehabilitation Project, a key infrastructure upgrade designed to ensure safe and efficient operations for years to come.
In addition, Swissport has been appointed as the airport’s new cargo handling partner, bringing investment in upgraded facilities and equipment to support Welsh exports and economic growth.
A new phase begins in November, when Jon Bridge takes over as Chief Executive. With more than 30 years of experience in retail, hospitality and transport, he will lead efforts to grow passenger numbers, attract new routes and enhance customer experience.
Ceri Mashlan, Director of Operations at Cardiff Airport, said: “This has been one of our strongest summers in recent years, and it’s great to see more people choosing to fly local. With continued investment, new routes and strong partnerships with our airlines, the future looks very bright for Wales’ National Airport.”
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