National Express is set to significantly expand its bus services to Bristol Airport, with plans to add over 100 extra journeys every week starting from next month. The decision to enhance services from various locations including Birmingham, Gloucester, Cheltenham, and Weston-super-Mare comes as the airport undergoes a major expansion, including the construction of a £60m ‘transport hub’.
Ed Rickard, Network Director of National Express, highlighted the company’s ongoing investment in its coach network and the growing popularity of its existing routes to the airport. He emphasized the appeal of National Express for customers seeking reliable and affordable travel options, especially amidst rising rail costs and disruptions.
The company’s commitment to improving transport links is further underscored by its plans to increase services between Bristol and London, following the discontinuation of Megabus services to the capital. Notably, Megabus still operates the South West Falcon service, connecting Bristol and Plymouth with a stop at Bristol Airport.
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National Express also revealed intentions to introduce more coaches between Bristol and Birmingham, with a significant expansion in the weekly number of services. Concurrently, Bristol Airport’s upcoming transport hub, scheduled to open next year, is expected to bolster sustainable travel options for passengers.
However, the airport’s expansion plans have sparked debate, with concerns raised about the environmental impact and low public transport usage. Despite a doubling in the percentage of passengers using public transport, the reliance on car parking and drop-off charges remains a significant source of income for the airport, generating a substantial annual profit.
In light of these developments, Ed Condon, Bristol Airport’s Transport Development Manager, expressed enthusiasm for the increased bus services and the potential transition from car to bus travel facilitated by the new transport hub. He outlined the benefits of the expanded National Express route for customers residing north of the airport and highlighted the upcoming improvements in coach facilities.