Regional Airport Operator Records Strong Passenger Growth Across UK Network

Regional & City Airports (RCA) has reported a sharp increase in passenger traffic across its UK airport portfolio, reflecting continued growth in regional aviation demand and ongoing investment in routes and infrastructure.

The operator, which owns and manages Bournemouth, Exeter and Norwich airports, said total passenger numbers rose by 23% year-on-year during the 12 months ending 31 March 2026.

Overall traffic across the three airports exceeded 2.4 million passengers, up from approximately 2 million during the previous reporting period.

Bournemouth leads passenger growth

Bournemouth Airport delivered the strongest performance within the group, with passenger numbers increasing by 26% to around 1.4 million travellers.

The airport also experienced a significant rise in cargo activity, with freight volumes climbing by 21% during what RCA described as a record year for the site.

The company said recent infrastructure upgrades, including a new arrivals hall and improvements to baggage handling facilities, helped support the growth in passenger throughput.

Exeter and Norwich continue expansion

Exeter Airport recorded the fastest percentage growth across the portfolio, with passenger traffic increasing by 32% to more than 580,000 passengers.

RCA attributed part of this increase to the introduction of a daily KLM service linking Exeter with Amsterdam, improving access to onward international connections through Schiphol Airport.

Norwich Airport also reported growth, with passenger numbers rising by approximately 5% to around 450,000 travellers.

Airlines and regional connectivity drive demand

The operator said the overall increase in traffic had been supported by a combination of new flight routes, increased airline capacity and continued demand for regional connectivity.

Airlines contributing to the growth included Jet2, Ryanair, TUI and KLM.

RCA chief executive Andrew Bell said the results demonstrated the resilience of regional aviation demand despite wider geopolitical and economic challenges affecting the sector.

Regional airports continue recovery

The latest figures reflect the wider recovery trend across UK regional airports, as airlines continue expanding direct point-to-point services outside major hub airports.

Regional airports are increasingly attracting passengers seeking alternatives to congestion at larger terminals while also supporting local economic activity and tourism.

According to RCA, its airports contribute hundreds of millions of pounds annually to regional economies while supporting thousands of jobs across their surrounding areas.