Jet2 boss criticises expansion plans
24.07.09
The boss of the largest airline operating at Leeds Bradford Airport has criticised the hubs £28m expansion plans, which were approved by Leeds councillors last week, the Telegraph & Argus reports. Philip Meeson, CEO of Jet2, accused the airport’s owners Bridgepoint Capital of planning the terminal extension to boost shopping facilities in order to recoup the £140m they paid for the airport.
Mr Meeson told the newspaper he does not believe the extension should go ahead now as it could push up costs for his airline and other tenants. He said: ‘Bridgepoint bought the airport at the top of the market. They spent £140m to buy it and so will be looking for ways to get their money back. The reason they want to extend the terminal is to create better shopping facilities as a cash generator.'
‘All airports are seeing a reduction in passengers and I would question whether we need this extension right now. The ring road is already crowded and there are not enough bus services to and from the airport. We need to have many more buses from all over the place and airport parking charges need to be kept down.’
However Tony Hallwood, Leeds Bradford Airport’s commercial and aviation director, said he was surprised by Mr Meeson’s comments. He told the newspaper: ‘The expansion is designed to ensure Leeds Bradford can compete and become the best regional airport in the UK. It will also boost the local economy. A major conurbation like Leeds and Bradford needs a proper airport.’
Add to: del.icio.us | Digg it | Newsvine | NowPublic | Reddit
To book leeds bradford airport hotel or leeds bradford airport car park at the lowest price, click on these links to two great leeds bradford airport parking and leeds bradford airport hotels price comparison pages.
