Bristol Airport submits plans for 300m runway extension to meet 12m passenger aim

Bristol Airport has submitted plans to extend its runway by around 300m to enable larger, longer-range aircraft to operate from the site. If approved, construction could begin in 2026, with the extended runway operational by 2027/2028.

image: Bristol Airport

The runway extension is part of a broader growth strategy that follows its successful planning appeal in 2022 to lift the cap on annual passenger numbers from 10m to 12m. A longer runway would allow the airport to operate direct routes to destinations such as North America and the Middle East

The proposal has been lodged with North Somerset Council, which will now begin the statutory planning process.

Bristol Airport argues that the expansion will boost regional economic growth, improve international connectivity for the South West and South Wales, and support new business and tourism opportunities. The airport also says the project will create hundreds of jobs during construction and thousands more through increased flight capacity.

Campaigners have warned that extending the runway undermines local and national climate commitments and there are also local concerns over noise and traffic congestion. North Somerset Council initially rejected the wider expansion plans on climate grounds, before the decision was overturned on appeal and later upheld in the High Court.

The airport insists the project is compatible with its net-zero plans and says it will invest in low-carbon technology and improved public transport access. The council will consult, stakeholders and statutory bodies before determining the application.