Jet2 boss criticises Leeds Bradford expansion plans
26.07.09
The boss of the largest airline operating from Leeds Bradford Airport has criticised the hubs £28 million expansion plans, given the go-ahead by Leeds councillors last week, the Telegraph & Argus reports. Philip Meeson, chief executive of Jet2, accused the airport’s owners Bridgepoint of planning the terminal extension mainly to boost shopping facilities in order to recoup the £140 million it 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 company and other tenants. He said: ‘Bridgepoint bought the airport at the top of the market. They spent £140 million to buy it and so will be looking for ways to get that 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 passenger numbers and I would question whether we need this extension 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 should be kept down.’
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 and boost the local economy. A major conurbation such as Leeds and Bradford needs a proper airport.’
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