Passenger Counts at Airports Have Increased by 28%

Shreya Majumder
9 hours ago
2 min read

By Shreya Majumder

Published: 15 December 2025 | Updated: 15 December 2025

Exeter Airport reports a 28% surge in passenger traffic, signalling strong regional recovery and growth.

Exeter Airport has seen a strong rebound in passenger traffic, with numbers rising by 28% over the past year as more travellers returned to flying from the regional hub. Between April and October 2025, more than 450,000 passengers passed through the airport, an increase of around 100,000 people compared with the same period last year.

The growth marks a significant milestone for the airport and signals a return to pre-pandemic momentum. Exeter Airport expects its total annual passenger numbers to exceed 500,000 for the first time since Flybe ceased operations in March 2020, a turning point that had a lasting impact on regional connectivity.

According to Managing Director Stephen Wiltshire, the increase has been driven largely by the reintroduction of European routes and a greater number of leisure flights operating from the East Devon airport. The return of popular holiday destinations has helped attract passengers who may previously have travelled elsewhere to fly.

Looking ahead, Mr Wiltshire said he was optimistic that this upward trend would continue into 2026. He confirmed that TUI will be basing a second aircraft at Exeter next year, a move expected to further boost capacity and choice for travellers. There are also hopes that the recently reintroduced route to Amsterdam Schiphol could be expanded to include a second daily service.

While acknowledging competition from Bristol Airport, Mr Wiltshire views it as an opportunity rather than a threat. He pointed out that many passengers in the region still travel to Bristol to fly, highlighting untapped demand closer to home.

“We know there is demand to fly from Exeter because we see passengers travelling elsewhere to do so,” he said. “That is why we have added extra airline capacity to destinations like Malaga and Alicante, and we are hopeful that this growth will continue.”

With rising passenger numbers, expanded routes, and increased airline presence, Exeter Airport appears well positioned for further recovery and growth as regional air travel continues to strengthen.

At Brookfield Aviation, we monitor trends in passenger traffic and airline operations worldwide. Regional airports like Exeter play a vital role in connectivity and growth, and we provide expert support for airlines and operators seeking to expand their presence in these markets.