Bristol Airport (BRS/EGGD): The West Country’s Premier International Gateway
Bristol Airport (BRS/EGGD) stands as the principal air hub for the South West of England and South Wales, solidifying its position as one of the UK’s fastest-growing and busiest airports. In 2024, BRS achieved a new milestone by serving over 10 million passengers, with future growth projections aiming to reach 15 million passengers per annum under its ambitious Master Plan to 2040. Located strategically just 13 km (8 miles) southwest of Bristol city center, the airport is a crucial access point for the vibrant cities of Bristol and Bath, as well as the scenic wider region.
Modern Terminal and Passenger Experience Enhancements
BRS operates from a single, efficient, and continuously upgraded terminal. The airport is currently undergoing a multi-million-pound transformation program to enhance every step of the passenger journey:
- State-of-the-Art Security: A major £11.5 million upgrade to next-generation security screening technology was completed in June 2024. This allows passengers to keep liquids (up to 2 litres) and electronics in their hand luggage, significantly speeding up the security process.
- Amenities: Services include complimentary Wi-Fi, a large selection of duty-free shops, and diverse dining options. Passengers can choose from establishments like Bar Zero9, Caffe Ritazza, and the recently expanded food court areas. Premium travelers can relax in the executive Aspire Lounge. Comprehensive facilities for families and passengers requiring special assistance are available throughout the terminal.
- Accommodation: The Hampton by Hilton is conveniently located directly on the airport site. Further hotel options are easily accessible via public transport in the city centre, such as The Bristol Hotel.
Expanding Network: New Routes and Key Destinations for 2025
Bristol Airport offers an extensive network, connecting the region to over 100 destinations globally. The year 2025 has seen substantial expansion, cementing BRS’s role as a major regional base:
- Key Carriers: The airport is a critical hub for easyJet (which has based a record 19 aircraft at BRS), Ryanair, TUI, KLM, and Aer Lingus.
- 2025 Route Highlights: Recent and upcoming route additions have expanded choice significantly:
- Long-Haul Potential: New routes to Istanbul (Pegasus Airlines) open vital connections to the Middle East and beyond. Furthermore, the Master Plan includes proposals for a runway extension to facilitate direct transatlantic flights to North America and the Middle East in the future.
- City & Culture: New services launched to popular European cities including Zurich (Edelweiss), Toulouse (Ryanair), Munich, Vienna, and Verona (easyJet).
- Sun Destinations: Enhanced access to holiday resorts such as Almeria (Spain), Palermo (Sicily), and Leros (Greece – Jet2holidays).
Seamless Ground Transportation and Parking Facilities
Transportation links to and from Bristol Airport are frequent and have been significantly improved by a recent £60 million Public Transport Interchange, which opened in July 2025.
- Bus Services:
- A1 Bristol Airport Flyer: The dedicated 24/7 express bus link provides a direct connection to Bristol Temple Meads Rail Station and Bristol Bus & Coach Station. Services run up to every 8 minutes during peak hours, with a journey time of approximately 30-45 minutes.
- A4 Air Decker: Offers a direct route connecting the airport with the city of Bath.
- Regional Connections: Coach services link BRS with South Wales (Cardiff, Newport) and the South West peninsula (Exeter, Plymouth) via the South West Falcon service.
- Taxi and Car Hire: A 24-hour taxi rank is available outside the terminal. On-site car hire services are provided by major international firms, including Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, and Sixt.
- Parking and Drop-off:
- On-Site Parking: A variety of options are available, including Short Stay, Long Stay, and Meet & Greet services. The best value is secured by pre-booking online.
- Drop Off & Pick Up: The express car park is located on the new Transport Interchange, ideal for quick transfers (charges apply, starting from £7 for 10 minutes).
- Waiting Zone: A free waiting zone is provided for up to one hour, offering a convenient option for drivers collecting arriving passengers.
Contact Details
For direct inquiries, please use the official contact channels:
- Address: Bristol, BS48 3DY, UNITED KINGDOM
- Website: www.bristolairport.co.uk
- Phone: +44 871 334 4444