Leeds Bradford Airport History

Leeds Bradford International Airport has come a long way since it was created in 1931.

Back then, the airport was known as Yeadon Aerodrome, and consisted of just 60 acres of grassy land, which was used by flying clubs to train. Today, more than two and a half million people pass through Leeds Bradford International Airport each year.

Early history

Before war broke out in 1939, Leeds Bradford International Airport was used to fly to destinations such as Newcastle, Edinburgh and the Isle of Man.

However, when war began, all civil flying stopped, and the airport became part of Britain’s war effort. More than 4,500 aircraft were constructed at a factory adjacent to the airfield, including famous airplanes such as the Lancaster.

Post-war

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, the airport grew rapidly. In 1963, Aer Lingus started to operate flights to Dublin. Soon afterwards, permission was given to construct a new runway. This runway became operational in 1965. In the same year, the terminal building was badly damaged by a fire, leading to the creation of a brand new terminal building.

Recent history

Large sums of money were invested in Leeds Bradford Airport during the 1980s. In 1996, the airport saw its millionth passenger, and in 2005, just over 2.6 million passengers passed through the airport. The terminal building had almost doubled in size by 1996. Extensive developments took place throughout 2003.

Among the many areas in which the airport has improved is Leeds Bradford airport parking. The Leeds Bradford Airport Car Watch, close to the airport, and the Leeds Bradford Long Stay car park have both thrived and helped to make life easier for people using the airport.

The future

Leeds Bradford International Airport now flies to over 65 destinations, and it is expected to continue expanding. By 2015 it is anticipated that in excess of 4 million visitors will use the airport annually.