Smaller UK airports struggle despite record passenger numbers

While overall air travel in the UK has reached record levels, a significant disparity has emerged in the recovery of its airports. Several of Britain’s smaller airports are facing substantial challenges, with passenger numbers down by as much as 50 percent or more compared to pre-pandemic levels.

A Two-Tier Recovery

The aviation sector is experiencing a “two-tier recovery,” according to AirportsUK, the industry’s trade body. Larger airports are attracting passengers while smaller regional airports struggle. This trend follows the failure of Flybe in 2020, which further impacted regional connectivity.

Did You Know? In 2025, UK airports handled 299 million passengers, surpassing the pre-pandemic peak of nearly 297 million in 2019.

Analysis of Civil Aviation Authority data reveals the extent of the decline at smaller airports. Southampton has seen a 48 percent decrease, falling from 1.7 million passengers to 880,000 annually. Exeter experienced a 43 percent drop, from 1 million to 570,000. Both airports were heavily reliant on the now-defunct Flybe.

Regional Impacts

Cardiff Airport has seen passenger numbers fall by 40 percent, from 1.6 million to 950,000, following the departure of Qatar Airways and Wizz Air. Its proximity to the stronger performing Bristol Airport is also a contributing factor. London City Airport, constrained by its size and reliance on business travelers, recorded a 27 percent decline, from 5.1 million to 3.7 million passengers.

Southend Airport, once envisioned as a new London airport, experienced a dramatic 64 percent drop in patronage, falling from 2 million to 720,000 passengers annually after easyJet and Ryanair withdrew services. Aberdeen, dependent on the oil and gas industry, is down 20 percent to 2.3 million passengers. Even East Midlands Airport, now a major freight hub, saw a 15 percent decrease in passenger numbers, to 3.9 million.

The situation has already led to the closure of Doncaster Sheffield Airport in 2022, after Tui and Wizz Air ceased operations there. The airport previously handled 1.4 million passengers.

Expert Insight: The consolidation of airline operations at larger hubs suggests a shift in the UK aviation landscape, potentially leading to reduced accessibility and increased travel times for passengers relying on regional airports.

However, not all regional airports are struggling. Edinburgh saw a 15 percent increase to 16.9 million passengers, and Birmingham experienced an 8 percent rise to 13.6 million.

What Might Happen Next?

If current trends continue, more smaller airports could face financial difficulties and potential closure. Airlines may continue to consolidate routes at larger hubs, further diminishing regional connectivity. However, AirportsUK maintains that smaller airports remain “viable and competitive,” suggesting potential for adaptation and recovery. It is also possible that increased investment or changes in government policy could help support these airports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is happening with smaller UK airports?

Several smaller UK airports are struggling to recover to pre-pandemic passenger levels, with some experiencing declines of 50 percent or more.

Which airports have been most affected?

Southampton, Exeter, Cardiff, London City Airport, and Southend have all experienced significant declines in passenger numbers.

What is causing these declines?

The declines are attributed to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the failure of Flybe, and a trend of airlines consolidating operations at larger airports.

As the UK aviation sector continues to evolve, will smaller airports be able to adapt and thrive, or will they face further challenges in the years to come?