Passenger numbers up by 5% - airport

Stephen Wiltshire, managing director of Exeter Airport, attributes the success to his team's hard work

Exeter Airport bosses have reported "steady growth" in passenger numbers as profits continue to rise following a pandemic slump.

From April to October 2024, the airport reported 337,993 passengers travelling through the hub - an increase of 15,740 on the same period last year.

The 5% increase was attributed in part to a new Ryanair route to Palma in Majorca.

Bosses said they predicted further growth in 2025.

'Hard work'

The airport said holiday firm TUI planned to increase its flights from Exeter with a second aircraft travelling to more European destinations.

Stephen Wiltshire, managing director of Exeter Airport, said the continued growth in passenger numbers was testament to both hard work and the appeal of Exeter Airport as a convenient gateway to UK and overseas destinations.

“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,” he said.

This summer's rise in traveller numbers coincides with the airport returning to profit for the first time since the pandemic in the 12 months leading up to March.

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.