Airport operator Regional & City Airports (RCA) reported a 23% year-on-year increase in passenger traffic across its UK portfolio during the 12 months ending March 31, 

The group, which owns and operates Bournemouth Airport, Exeter Airport and Norwich Airport, saw total passenger volumes rise from approximately 1.98 million in the previous year to over 2.43 million. It attributes the growth to sustained infrastructure investment and expanded airline partnerships.

Traffic was supported by the performance of key carriers including Jet2, Ryanair, TUI and KLM, alongside RCA’s operation of XLR Executive Jet Centres at Birmingham, Bournemouth, Exeter and Liverpool.

Bournemouth Airport recorded its strongest year on record with a 26% increase in passengers to 1.39 million. The performance was largely attributed to the first full year of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays operations, complemented by investments in a new arrivals hall and upgraded baggage systems.

The airport’s Cargo First division also achieved record results, handling 37,042 tonnes of cargo, a 21% increase that included a 20% rise in exports.

Exeter Airport saw the highest percentage growth in the portfolio with a 32% rise to 582,000 passengers. This expansion was driven by the launch of a daily KLM service to Amsterdam, providing connectivity to more than 160 destinations, an increased TUI presence and the return of Loganair’s Manchester route.

Norwich Airport reported a 5% increase to 453,000 passengers, supported by Ryanair expansion, steady KLM and TUI demand, and helicopter activity serving the offshore energy sector.

According to RCA, its airports contribute approximately £438 million in Gross Value Added to their local economies annually and support 6,370 jobs.

Andrew Bell, RCA chief executive, said: “2025/26 has been a strong year for RCA, with all three of our airports delivering growth and Bournemouth achieving a record-breaking performance. This reflects the strength of our airline partnerships, the continued demand for regional connectivity, and the benefits of our ongoing investment.”

Bell said that, while the industry faces a complex operating environment and geopolitical tensions, demand for regional air travel remains resilient. 

“We continue to monitor external factors closely, but our focus remains on supporting our airline partners, investing in our infrastructure, and delivering a high-quality customer experience,” Bell said. “The performance over the past year underlines the important role regional airports play in connecting communities and driving economic growth.”