Today marks a momentous occasion for Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) as it celebrates the 40th anniversary of a pivotal expansion that transformed travel in Yorkshire. Since its runway extension was completed in 1984, LBA has seen over 2 million flights take off and land, connecting the region to destinations worldwide.
On November 4, 1984, LBA welcomed its first international connection when Wardair, a leading Canadian airline, launched the inaugural route between Leeds Bradford and Toronto. The flight, operated by a Boeing 747, was a symbol of progress and new possibilities for the region. The day became even more memorable as Yorkshire Post Newspapers chartered a second Boeing 747, launching it under the fitting name “Spirit of Yorkshire.” As passengers arrived at LBA, each received a certificate to commemorate the flight, and a photographer captured the iconic moment.
Reflecting on this milestone, Vincent Hodder, CEO at LBA, said: “It’s remarkable to look back on such a significant milestone for Leeds Bradford Airport, one that created so many opportunities for people in our region and has seen over 2 million flights land and depart since this day 40 years ago.”
Since then, LBA has hosted notable flights, including a Concorde visit in 1986, and grown into a bustling airport serving approximately 4 million passengers annually. This number is expected to increase as LBA embarks on its Vision 2030 strategy, a bold plan focused on enhancing passenger experience and driving sustainable growth over the next decade. Hodder commented, “The airport has continually strived to improve in that time and our LBA: REGEN plans reaffirm our commitment to continually develop and evolve our services, ensuring customers will continue to get the best possible experience from Leeds Bradford Airport.”
Under the Vision 2030 plan, LBA is currently expanding its terminal, with a new three-storey addition scheduled to open in Spring 2025. The airport is also undergoing extensive refurbishment of its existing facilities, set to increase terminal space by 38%. In addition, new investments are being made in the airfield, which will add up to 10 overnight stands for LBA-based aircraft. These enhancements are all part of LBA’s mission to expand its route offerings, with goals to secure new European routes and explore connections to North Atlantic and Middle Eastern destinations.
For more updates and information on LBA’s future, visit Leeds Bradford Airport’s website or follow their social media channels.
