Bristol Airport could transform under expansion plans

North Somerset Times
John Wimperis
01 May 2026

Bristol Airport could completely transform over the next decade if its expansion plans are approved.

The airport has announced plans to expand to serve 15 million passengers per year and to fly to farther destinations like America and the Middle East.

The expansion of a major airport still has to follow the same legal process as building an extension to your home, with a planning application for the work going before the local council. 

The expansion would see the airport absorb neighbouring Cook’s Farm to the north west, increase the size of the terminal building by almost half, and lengthen the runway — with landing lights to cross the A38 and controversially be installed on Felton Common. Changes would also be made to the A38 itself.

The airport plans to increase the number of stands, where planes wait to be boarded, from 38 to 48.

Under the new plans, Bristol Airport says only three of the plane stands would need a bus transfer. Separate buildings of boarding gates would be located around the plane stands, which would be extended over neighbouring farmland. A new underground tunnel would allow passengers to reach these “piers” from the main terminal building.

The total size of the terminal would increase by almost 50% to over 100 square metres.

A huge four storey extension to the west of the airport would fit an expanded baggage claim area complete with a duty free store..The immigration hall would be moved upstairs and expanded, with a larger queueing area for busy periods.

An extension added on to the front of the terminal would “enhance” the look of the main entrance. Inside, it will add more space for check-in desks and space to queue for security. Meanwhile an extension to the east would increase space for more check-in desks on the ground floor and 1,150 square metres of new shops and restaurants in the departure lounge above.

In order to serve larger planes that can fly to America and the Middle East, Bristol Airport plans to extend its runway by 150 metres...

Bristol Airport could transform under expansion plans | North Somerset Times | 01 May 2026