Passengers are urging others to stop criticising Cardiff Airport, according to Wales Online. Despite a recent increase in passenger numbers and the introduction of new routes, opinions among readers are divided on the airport’s performance. The summer has been positive for Cardiff Airport, with an 8% growth in passenger numbers from January to July compared to the previous year. Popular destinations this summer have included Alicante, Malaga, Amsterdam, Majorca, Dublin, Tenerife, Belfast, Dalaman, Antalya, and Algarve.
In response to the rise in passengers, airlines such as TUI, Vueling, and Ryanair have added more flights and destinations. Notably, the first direct flights between Wales and Iceland are set to commence in October, operated by PLAY, a low-cost airline providing connecting services to major cities like New York and Toronto. The Welsh government has pledged over £200 million in subsidy support over the next decade to boost growth and attract new airlines, aiming to surpass two million passengers annually by enhancing terminal facilities and upgrading infrastructure.
While some passengers have praised their positive experiences at Cardiff Airport, others have raised concerns about higher prices. Reader feedback included commendations for affordable flights and convenient locations, alongside complaints about flight cancellations and expensive fares. Suggestions for improvements included advocating for direct road access from the M4 and discussing the potential of devolving Airport Passenger Duty to make flights more affordable.
Overall, responses from readers indicate a mix of satisfaction and dissatisfaction with Cardiff Airport, highlighting the importance of addressing pricing concerns and enhancing accessibility to better serve passengers. As the airport continues to expand its routes and facilities, ongoing dialogue between passengers, airlines, and airport management will be crucial in shaping its future success.