With yesterday's snow accurately forecasted, we were able to make the necessary preparations to help our staff deal with significant accumulations on the airfield and minimise disruption.

However, it is possible that a small number of flights to areas of Europe that are currently affected by snow could experience short delays because of weather problems down route.

The flight will depart from Bournemouth early evening 4.20pm and 2.30pm from Dublin.

The flight times offer a convenient and cost effective service, and direct connectivity between Bournemouth and Dublin for business passengers. They are also ideal for midweek or weekend short breaks for leisure passengers. Prices start from £29.99 one way, including taxes and are available for booking on www.aerlingus.com.

Commenting on this new route, the airport's Managing Director, Rob Goldsmith said: "Direct flights between Bournemouth and Dublin have always been popular and we are delighted to have this new Aer Lingus Regional route this summer. Dublin is a wonderful city break destinations for people living in our region, whilst Irish visitors will love a short break to visit Bournemouth and the spectacular Dorset coastline."

Under a franchise agreement, Aer Lingus Regional flights are operated by Aer Arann. Commenting on the summer 2012 schedule, Aer Arann's Director of Corporate Affairs, Andrew Kelly, said: "Aer Arann is committed to providing its customers with easy, convenient regional connectivity and great value for money. The introduction of this new service will bring increased visitors to both Bournemouth and Dublin, and will significantly benefit business travel. We look forward to welcoming our passengers on board all of our Aer Lingus Regional services this summer."

Welcoming today's announcement, Declan Kearney, Aer Lingus Director of Communications added: "We are delighted to see the Aer Lingus Regional services go from strength to strength and we wish Aer Arann continued success with the operation of its new and existing services for summer 2012."

Blue Islands are the airline with 'a welcome difference.' The truly unique policies pioneered by Blue Islands allow passengers to book flights without having to worry about any hidden charges whatsoever. No charges to carry baggage or for excess baggage, no charges to book using a debit or credit card, and free changes to tickets (names and flights) provide a refreshing change to all passengers on all flights.

The airline will offer flights three times a week to Jersey, meaning the beauty and tranquillity of the Channel Islands are only 50 minutes away. Guernsey is then a short 15 minute flight away.

Rob Veron, Managing Director of Blue Islands is pleased to see these popular routes return to the ever expanding Blue Islands network. "I'm delighted that we now have the availability to offer these Channel Island services to passengers travelling from Bournemouth Airport. I look forward to welcoming new passengers from Bournemouth and the surrounding areas to enjoy the Blue Islands welcome difference. We believe in clear, honest and transparent pricing coupled with excellent customer service which is hugely popular with our passengers.

He added: "Jersey and Guernsey are the ideal short break destinations - stunning views, cliff walks, fabulous restaurants and hotels, not to mention the tax free shopping."

Founded in 2006, Blue Islands connects the Channel Islands to a number of UK and European destinations including Zurich, Geneva, the Isle of Man, London City, Bristol, Southampton, Manchester and now Bournemouth.

Rob Goldsmith, Managing Director of Bournemouth Airport said: "I am, of course, delighted to see that Blue Islands will be returning to Bournemouth Airport. Flights to and from the Channel Islands have always been popular and I'm confident that this new service will prove equally attractive to those living in the Channel Islands and here on the south coast."

Schedule:
Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday
Bournemouth - Jersey Depart 12.15 Arrive 13.00
Jersey - Bournemouth Depart 11.05 Arrive 11.50

Tuesday, Thursday
Bournemouth - Guernsey (via Jersey) Depart 12.15 Arrive 13.55
Guernsey - Bournemouth (via Jersey) Depart 10.10 Arrive 11.50

Saturday
Bournemouth - Guernsey (via Jersey) Depart 12.15 Arrive 18.05
Guernsey - Bournemouth (via Jersey) Depart 09.25 Arrive 11.50

ATOL-protected customers of Holidays 4 U who are currently abroad and experiencing difficulties should contact the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for more information on 0044 (0)161 444 5810.

Those with forward bookings requiring general advice about refunds under the ATOL scheme should go to the CAA website or can contact the CAA on 08444 933037.

Further information is available from the CAA at:
http://www.caa.co.uk/default.aspx?catid=27&pagetype=90&pageid=12372

Employee's skills are being sought to help transform lives of children with life-threatening illnesses and disabilities as the airport's parent company, Manchester Airports Group (MAG), has today announced its three-year support of Medcare, a UK charity that runs the Wellspring Children's Medical Centre in rural Uganda.

Staff with practical skills from electricians to architects will have the chance to provide on-the ground support in Uganda at Wellspring and apply their skills in building a HIV/AIDS unit and a centre for disabled children.

MAG has never adopted a Group-wide charity before and a key reason it selected Medcare is because their support will transform the charity's ability to help so many children.

Charlie Cornish, MAG's Chief Executive, said: "We do tremendous work in our local communities and support brilliant local charities. But we've never had something that colleagues and business partners can get behind together, by applying a combination of fundraising and first-World skills in the third World which can really change lives. I am confident that our work will make an unfathomable difference to people who need help. Medcare is a relatively new, successful charity but is keen to raise its game and increase its impact. The parallel with MAG's evolution makes Medcare the perfect partner for us."

Russell Craig, MAG's Head of External Communications, is leading the project and the first major development that funds are needed for is to expand the Wellspring Children's Medical Centre in Kamutuuza, Uganda. The first part opened in 2008 and provides general health care, vaccinations, and acute malaria care to some of the most vulnerable children in Africa, together with sponsorship of children with HIV/AIDS and those with disabilities. Since then it has successfully treated over 20,000 children.

Pauline Hutchinson, Medcare Founder, said: "I am so delighted that MAG has agreed to help and support Medcare. I know that just a small contribution can go a long way and change lives. I am confident that having MAG involved for three years will mean a huge difference to the lives of the children we look after at Wellspring."

For photographs and further information please contact 0161 489 2700 or email press.office@manairport.co.uk

Notes to editors
Medcare is a charity based in the North West of the UK committed to helping under privileged children in third world countries who cannot receive the proper medical care they require. Their overseas work is based in Kamutuuza in Uganda.

Medcare's unpaid volunteers provide health equality for sick, vulnerable, deprived children in the developing world, through medical and social care. All revenues fund the work in Uganda.

They have been making a difference to the lives of thousands of deprived village children for more than three years. Most people don't realise that making a relatively small donation can make a BIG difference. £3 will purchase a life saving mosquito net, £6 will provide treatment for one child annually at Wellspring, £25 a month will provide life changing sponsorship to a child with a chronic illness or disability, £300 will provide surgery for a child with clubbed feet so enabling them to live a normal life.

For further details on the work of Medcare please visit www.medcare.org.uk or Facebook.com/medcare. Medcare charity number 1141700.

The ACI EUROPE Best Airport Awards cover four categories of airport and aim to recognise achievement in core activities such as customer service, retail, security and environmental awareness.

The judging panel was drawn from a well-respected group of independent experts and, when announcing the award, they commented that they chose Bournemouth Airport for its 'dynamic business approach in recent years, its commercial renaissance and exemplary care for passengers with reduced mobility'.

Rob Goldsmith, Bournemouth Airport Managing Director said: "We faced strong competition in this category with more than 100 airports being eligible for the award. The past couple of years have been tough for all airports so I was delighted to hear the judges' comments regarding our business and commercial approach. We pride ourselves on our customer service and we have always worked hard to ensure passengers with reduced mobility are well looked after. It's wonderful to see that all our efforts are being recognised at a European level."

Earlier this year Bournemouth Airport was voted the 'most improved airport in Europe for customer satisfaction' by ACI EUROPE. And at the end of last year it was a runner-up in the Dorset Business Awards 'Company of the Year' category, and won two awards in the Bournemouth Tourism awards (Tourism Marketing Initiative and Outstanding Customer Service) as well as being highly commended in the Transport Initiative category.

This has been achieved by a wide range of energy efficient features - including the installation of 323 photovoltaic (solar) panels on the roof of the building. (To put this into context, it is estimated that the solar panels on the roof will generate enough electricity to power more than 130 homes).

Other energy efficient features include the use of passive lighting and ventilation throughout the building, solar shading, the use of air source heat pumps and a computerised building management system that controls the heating, lighting and cooling.

Rob Goldsmith, Managing Director commented: "Opening the new arrivals hall marks a significant step forward in our redevelopment programme, and will also play a major part in helping us achieve our target of being carbon neutral for our ground operations by 2012. Once again the whole team worked hard to ensure we opened before the bank holiday weekend and the start of the main summer holiday season. We will now concentrate our efforts on landscaping the area between the arrivals and departures buildings, with a view to completing the whole redevelopment project by the end of the summer."

At present vehicles that are dropping off or picking up passengers are not charged for the first ten minutes of parking, and pay £2.50 for a stay of between 10 to 30 minutes. From Thursday 14 April, the ten-minute free period will be removed meaning all of these vehicles will be charged £2.50 for a stay of up to 30 minutes. Research undertaken by the airport shows that this will only affect a minority of visitors to the site.

Rob Goldsmith, Managing Director of Bournemouth Airport said: "Our car parks are conveniently located adjacent to the terminal buildings, and the charges for on-site airport parking are among the cheapest in southern England. For this reason the majority of our passengers choose to leave their car at the airport whilst they are away, and they will not be affected by these new arrangements. However, we know that some people will be disappointed by this change and hope they will understand that this is a commercial decision brought about by the world wide recession and the subsequent downturn in the aviation industry.

He added: "Despite the economic situation, we have continued to invest over £45 million in redeveloping the airport and have recently been recognised by ACI (the worldwide professional association of airport operators) as the most improved airport in Europe. We are now focussing our efforts on completing the redevelopment programme and providing the region with an airport that offers a greater range of airlines flying to more destinations from one of the most modern terminals in the UK."

A new team of customer service staff will be on hand to assist drivers as the procedures are introduced. In addition, there will be prominent signs along the airport access road, new information will appear on the Bournemouth Airport website, and travel agents will be briefed so that passengers know about the changes before they arrive at the airport.

In advance of the changes, the car parks at Bournemouth Airport have recently been awarded the 'Park Mark' Safer Parking status, having met the stringent requirements of a risk assessment carried out by the Police.

"Bournemouth was the first regional airport in the south to provide members of the public with a quick and easy way to follow the aircraft flying in and out of the airport," explains Rob Goldsmith, Managing Director of Bournemouth Airport. "Thousands of people have used WebTrak since its launch in 2008 and this upgrade will now make it even easier to use."

The upgraded system makes it much easier to identify the different types of aircraft flying in and out of Bournemouth, and also shows those which are flying over the region en-route to other airports. The area that WebTrak covers has been extended and now shows flights operating to and from Southampton. The maps are also much clearer and users can choose between a street map, an aerial view or a combination of both.

To access WebTrak, log onto www.bournemouthairport.com and click on the WebTrak logo at the bottom left of the home page.

Notes to editors:
Flight information on WebTrak uses data sourced from Bournemouth Airport's radar and is displayed 24 hours in arrears to maintain aviation security.

The data included in WebTrak has been processed for public display and the information is not for any other purpose including navigational purposes or airline scheduled information.

Press enquiries to:
Sally Windsor, External Communications, Bournemouth Airport
Tel: 01202 364106 or 07768 444556
Email: sally.windsor@bournemouthairport.com

This prestigious award was announced today by Airports Council International (ACI) - the worldwide professional association of airport operators. Throughout the year ACI carry out a comprehensive survey of passengers at their member airports; the results of these surveys are then carefully analysed to decide the Airport Service Quality Awards.

Commenting on this award, Rob Goldsmith, Managing Director said: "Everyone at the airport is passionate about providing the best possible customer experience. This is a massive achievement for the team and I am delighted that all their hard work has now been recognised at an international level."

Last year ACI surveyed more than 1700 passengers whilst they were travelling through Bournemouth Airport. Passengers were asked to indicate their satisfaction with more than 30 features including ambience of the airport, courtesy and helpfulness of staff, check in and security, shopping and restaurant facilities, cleanliness of the terminal, passport inspection and car parks.

"The results of these surveys are sent to us on a quarterly basis and form an important part of our customer service strategy," continues Rob Goldsmith. "We spend a lot of time examining them and looking at ways in which we can keep improving the passenger experience."

Announcing these awards, ACI Director General Angela Gittens said: "Airports vie for passenger loyalty as they seek to attract new routes and services. For them, ASQ is not just a popularity contest. It is a tool to help improve performance in a measurable manner - to understand the factors that are successful and also identify and address problem areas that require improvement. Such is the competition and importance of service quality at airports worldwide today."

The awards will be formally presented at a special awards ceremony in New Delhi, India in April.

Press enquiries to:
Sally Windsor, External Affairs Manager, Bournemouth Airport
Tel: 01202 364106 or 07768 444556
Email: sally.windsor@bournemouthairport.com

Patrick, has an MSc in Air Transport Management and a BA (Hons) in Business Studies. His new role will cover a wide range of responsibilities encompassing the marketing and commercial functions at Bournemouth. This will include the optimisation of all revenue streams, consumer and trade marketing, airline and tour operator relations and new business development.

Commenting on his new appointment, Patrick said: "I'm really excited about the opportunities at Bournemouth Airport. With its new departures terminal, recently upgraded infrastructure and the imminent opening of its new arrivals hall, the Airport provides airlines and tour operators with an excellent opportunity to grow their business at an established regional airport which is well supported by those living within its catchment area."

Press enquiries to:

Sally Windsor, External Communications, Bournemouth Airport
Tel: 01202 364106 or 07768 444556 Email: sally.windsor@bournemouthairport.com

Situated within the new departures terminal, the branch will offer all the facilities you would expect from a traditional high street outlet including cruises, holidays bookings with all the major tour operators and flight only tickets with easyJet and Ryanair. They also offer very competitive rates on foreign exchange.

Commenting on the opening of the new branch, Manager Clive Hill said: "We are delighted to be operating in this unique location, where we can book everything - from a low cost flight to a worldwide cruise. Together our team have over 50 years experience in the travel industry which means we can offer our customers a high quality service in a modern, spacious environment."

Clive can provide expert advice on the Caribbean and ski holidays, whilst Assistant Manager, Izabel Flood, is a specialist on cruise and America. The third member of the team - Travel Consultant, Michelle King - has particular expertise in assisting with package holiday bookings.

As a special introductory offer, anyone booking a package holiday flying from Bournemouth Airport will receive one week's free parking at the airport*.

In addition everyone making a booking or holiday enquiry at Bath Travel won't have to pay for their visit to the airport. "Just hand us your car park ticket and we'll arrange for you to park for free," adds Clive Hill. "That's something you don't get when you visit high street branches!"

* To qualify, the total cost of the package holiday must be over £1000 and bookings must be made by 31st August 2010. There is no restriction on date of travel.

Press enquiries to:
Sally Windsor, External Communications, Bournemouth Airport
Tel: 01202 364106 or 07768 444556 Email: sally.windsor@bournemouthairport.com

The report, entitled connecting today and tomorrow, details the Group's commitment to responsible and sustainable growth by outlining the progress it has made in mitigating its impact on the environment and its neighbours, as well as clearly demonstrating the social and economic benefits that the airport brings to the region it serves.

The Manchester Airports Group contributes £3.5 billion to the UK economy annually and provides direct employment for around 26,000 people with a further 50,000 jobs created to support the business. Available on the Group's website magworld.co.uk, the report demonstrates the importance MAG places on growing a sustainable business for the future.

Bournemouth Airport's reduction in emissions also contributes to the wider aviation industry's own stringent targets. The aviation industry, as a whole, contributes 2-3% to global emissions and 6% towards UK emissions and is the only sector to have set its own targets to reduce climate change, with a commitment to carbon neutral growth from 2020.

The airport, along with the other airports in the Group, was the first airport to commit to all its operations being carbon neutral by 2012 and has led the way for many years by implementing innovative projects.

Penny Coates, Group Board Director responsible for Sustainability said: "We are proud to be launching our first sustainability report and to be setting out some of our achievements to date. We have a strong track record in innovative environmental performance and in supporting the local communities around our airports. We know how critical our airports are to the economic and social development of the regions and the people that they serve, but we must balance the benefits against the need to minimise the effects that our operations have."

Highlights from the report include:

• The airport has incorporated environmentally friendly and carbon reducing techniques into all new buildings, since 2006; including the newly opened terminal building, which incorporates a bio-diesel boiler to provide heating, resulting in annual savings of 546 tonnes of CO2. Planning permission for a new Arrivals building, due to open in summer 2011, has also recently been received, which is thought to be the first airport building of its type in the UK and will produce 70% fewer emissions than the conventional design. The design takes advantage of the building's orientation to make maximum possible use of solar gain, solar shading, daylight and natural ventilation. These measures will reduce the need for mechanical and electrical installations which, in turn, will reduce the building's energy requirements. During the redevelopment work, special measures were taken to prevent harm to protected plant and animal species that inhabit the adjoining ecologically sensitive areas.
• Bournemouth Airport has contributed £8,200 to the local communities in grants to local community groups.
• Preserving the heathland around Bournemouth Airport's site is a priority for the business, as it is sensitive to emissions. While the airports contribution to emission is low, it works hard to reduce the effect, by measures such as vehicle emissions testing and assessing the impact of new building work on air quality.
• The airport promotes environmentally sound choices amongst customers, by encouraging passengers to offset their journey on the airport's website and by ensuring good transport links to and from the surrounding areas.

The full MAG Sustainability Report is available to download from www.magworld.co.uk/ sr2009

A couple of weeks ago, Ryanair announced that it would be reducing flights throughout the UK. The airline has today confirmed that they will be suspending flights to and from Bournemouth during November, December and January, blaming the Government's Air Passenger Duty tax for this decision. A full schedule will re-commence in February with flights to Alicante, Girona, Faro, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Malaga and Tenerife.

Commenting on this announcement, Bournemouth Airport Managing Director, Rob Goldsmith said: "We are currently experiencing the longest downturn in the UK aviation industry since the war. Demand for air travel has been adversely affected this year by a wide range of factors including the sluggish economy recovery, the forthcoming austerity measures, the volcanic ash cloud, the general election, the Euro/Pound exchange rate and increased aviation taxation.

"Leisure trips have been particularly badly affected and with so much economic gloom and uncertainty, people have been cutting back on overseas short breaks, or second and third holidays.

"We are obviously disappointed by this decision, but fully appreciate how tough it is for low-cost airlines to operate profitably, especially in the winter months. However we remain confident that this is a short term set back and that demand in our catchment area will soon pick up, and we look forward to retaining our long term partnership with Ryanair in the future."

Press enquiries to:

Sally Windsor, External Communications, Bournemouth Airport
Tel: 01202 364106 or 07768 444556

Email: sally.windsor@bournemouthairport.com

To mark the inaugural flight yesterday (27 May), Miss Manchester, Elicia Davies, flew from Manchester to the south coast where she met up with Miss Bournemouth, Chantelle Lewis.

Commenting on the first ever flight from Bournemouth, Mike Rutter, Flybe Chief Commercial Officer said: "The addition of Bournemouth to our already extensive choice of regional airports reflects our commitment to continued development and also to our growth at Manchester Airport where we are the largest scheduled airline."

Rob Goldsmith, Bournemouth Airport's Managing Director said: "Flybe is an airline that is known and trusted in this area and we are delighted that they have decided to start operating flights to and from Manchester. It's one of our most requested destinations - for both business and leisure travel - and we look forward to welcoming Flybe passengers to our airport."

Adds Manchester Airport's Commercial Director, Andrew Harrison: "We welcome this new service from Flybe. This route to Bournemouth not only extends our network across the UK but connects our sister airport with Manchester. This is a brand new destination from Manchester Airport to a popular seaside holiday town. We look forward to supporting Flybe in making this service a success."

Flights operate six times a week and are available for booking now at www.flybe.com with fares from just £24.99 one way, including taxes and charges.

Schedule:
Monday to Friday
Depart Manchester 10.40 hrs Arrive Bournemouth 11.40 hrs
Depart Bournemouth 12.05 hrs Arrive Manchester 13.05 hrs

Sunday
Depart Manchester 10.15 hrs Arrive Bournemouth 11.15 hrs
Depart Bournemouth 11.40 hrs Arrive Manchester 12.40 hrs

Press enquiries to:
Sally Windsor, External Communications, Bournemouth Airport
Tel: 01202 364106 or 07768 444556
Email: sally.windsor@bournemouthairport.com

Speaking after the meeting Rob Goldsmith, airport Managing Director said: "We are delighted that the Council has approved the design of the new arrivals building. This will be an innovative structure, with 70% less CO2 emissions than the previous design and is, we believe, the first airport building of its type in the UK.

He continued, "It should be ready for use by Summer 2011 and will provide a fitting welcome to visitors to the region."

The design of the new arrivals hall takes advantage of the building's orientation to make maximum possible use of solar gain, solar shading, daylight and natural ventilation. These measures will reduce the need for mechanical and electrical installations which, in turn, will reduce the building's energy requirements.

Press enquiries to:
Sally Windsor, External Communications, Bournemouth Airport
Tel: 01202 364106 or 07768 444556 Email: sally.windsor@bournemouthairport.com

Schedule:
Monday - Fridays
Depart Manchester 1040 arr Bournemouth 1140
Depart Bournemouth 1205 arr Manchester 1305

Sundays
Depart Manchester 1015 arr Bournemouth 1115
Depart Bournemouth 1140 arr Manchester 1240

Mike Rutter, Flybe's Chief Commercial Officer comments: "We're delighted to be adding this new destination to our extensive choice of regional services. It not only reflects our commitment to continued growth at Manchester Airport where we are the largest scheduled airline but also our development into new regions. Our new Bournemouth route will be especially convenient to those living and working in the more westerly counties of the South Coast, so extending further our extensive regional presence."

The news has been welcomed by Bournemouth Airport, with Managing Director, Rob Goldsmith commenting: "At a time when the economy is still struggling we are delighted to welcome Flybe as a new airline at Bournemouth Airport. Manchester is one of our most requested destinations and I know that business and leisure travellers alike will be keen to take advantage of this direct link to the north."

Manchester Airport's Commercial Director Andrew Harrison said: "We welcome this news from Flybe. This route to Bournemouth not only extends our network across the UK but connects our sister airport with Manchester.

"This is a brand new destination from Manchester Airport to a popular holiday town that also offers our passengers a fastest connection to the surrounding Dorset resorts. We look forward to working with Flybe in making this service a great success."

Flybe offers passengers an quality range of benefits that includes Premium Economy travel offering dedicated Executive Lounges, Rewards4all loyalty programme as well as a through check-in service link with Virgin Atlantic that means that those travelling with a through ticket for Flybe and Virgin Atlantic sectors to and from a number of UK airports including Manchester, can now have their boarding cards issued for both flights at the very start of their journey.

Mr Rutter adds: "Flybe is continually striving to improve our customer experience for the added convenience of our passengers. We expect our new route to be popular for those planning their holidays or weekends away and wanting their budgets to go as far as possible, so it's advisable to book early to take advantage of the lowest possible fares."

The announcement of a second based aircraft for Bournemouth is excellent news in the current economic climate and clearly demonstrates Ryanair's ongoing commitment to the Airport. The addition of this new aircraft brings Ryanair's investment in Bournemouth to over $140 million.

New routes for Summer 2010 are Fuerteventura (Canary Islands), Ibiza, Malta and Valencia - all of which will be served by two flights a week. Flights to Palma will operate four times a week, whilst flights to Malaga and Alicante will be operate five times a week. Ryanair has also confirmed that the routes to Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and Tenerife which were introduced this winter will continue throughout summer 2010. It is estimated that Ryanair will carry 650,000 passengers next year through Bournemouth Airport.

Commenting on this news, Rob Goldsmith, Bournemouth Airport's Managing Director said: "This additional aircraft shows that Ryanair is committed to expanding the Bournemouth base and that they have confidence in our ability to deliver good passenger numbers. It will also deliver significant economic benefits throughout the region, capitalising on our area's huge tourism potential by making it even easier to get here from a wider range of destinations.

"Following on from last week's news about bmi baby, it has been a really good end to the year, despite the current economic climate."

Peter Scott, Chief Executive of Dorset Business was quick to welcome the news, saying: "The announcement of the expanded network is testimony to the confidence that operators have in the upgraded airport at Bournemouth. This will be a boost for the South West region, and will help make Bournemouth an even more attractive destination for outbound passengers. And we will hope to see a concurrent increase in inbound visitors, both for the leisure market and for business travel."

Ends

Commenting on their move into Bournemouth Airport, Managing Director Rob Goldsmith said: "We are delighted to welcome Bath Travel into the airport. In addition to giving our passengers a competitive price on foreign currency, I am particularly pleased that they will be opening up two travel agency outlets. We have been without a travel agency for some years now and I know this will prove popular with passengers and visitors alike."

The 'landside' travel agency/bureau de change is conveniently located opposite the check in desks, whilst the new 'airside' operation will be located in the interim departure lounge, close to the restaurant. Visitors to either unit will be able to book the wide choice of flights and holidays available from Bournemouth Airport including flight only with Ryanair and easyJet, charter holidays with Palmair, Thomson and First Choice, day trips to Jersey and, of course, the ever-popular range of Caribbean fly-cruises which operate during the winter months.

Stephen Bath, joint Managing Director of Bath Travel added: "This is a wonderful opportunity for us, especially as the airport will be moving into its exciting, new departure terminal next year. We pride ourselves on offering a first class service and I'm confident that our experience will allow us to grow new business, increase turnover whilst ensuring that our customers always come first."

Carbon offsetting is a mechanism for compensating for carbon emissions that are currently unavoidable, by paying for equivalent emissions savings or reductions to be made elsewhere. Three of the airlines using Bournemouth - Thomson, First Choice and easyJet - already offer this option to passengers. The Airport's scheme will now enable even more passengers to offset their flights via a link on the website.

The Manchester Airports Group (of which Bournemouth is a part) has committed to a carbon neutral target for the energy used in its operational buildings, airfield and car parks, as well as the fuel used in its vehicles. It is expected to reach this by 2012.

Announcing this scheme, Rob Goldsmith, Managing Director of Bournemouth Airport said: "We're taking a proactive role within the airline industry to make CO2 emission reductions already, but as a Group we want to support the work of our airline partners and help encourage passengers to use a carbon off-set scheme."

In order to offer this facility, the airport has linked up with Carbon Clear, a carbon management company that helps businesses and individuals to reduce their carbon impact.

Mark Chadwick, CEO of Carbon Clear, said: "I am delighted that the Manchester Airports Group is taking a proactive lead in managing and reducing its carbon impact. As well as reducing its own operation emissions, it is taking an industry leading role in helping its passengers to do the same, using high quality carbon credits that make a very real contribution to climate change and the communities they serve."

Anyone wanting to offset the carbon cost of their flight can do so at: http://www.bournemouthairport.com/carbonoffset

Ryanair's Sales & Marketing Executive, Ashley Casey, said: "We are delighted to announce these three new Canary Island winter sun destinations from Bournemouth Airport. All three routes are on sale now for flights until March 2010, allowing passengers to book the guaranteed lowest fares to the sun this winter."

Flight details:

Ryanair will also operate to the following destinations from Bournemouth this winter: Edinburgh, Dublin, Girona, Malaga, Murcia and Alicante.

Perfect for winter sports:
The Bournemouth-Geneva route is perfect for those wanting a quick and easy way to get to the French and Swiss Alps. Some of the most popular resorts - such as Chamonix, Verbier, Courmayeur, Les Arcs and Val d'Isere - are within a couple of hours drive of the airport. Catch the lunchtime flight from Bournemouth and you'll be enjoying pre-dinner drinks in your resort. And because you aren't bound by the restrictions of charter flights, ski enthusiasts can get away for a two or three day short break or even just a weekend.

Perfect for a city break:
However Geneva is also a perfect city break destination. Nestling on the shores of Lake Geneva, at the foot of the Jura mountains, everything in the city exudes quality, elegance and a cosmopolitan lifestyle. For those on a short break it offers everything from gentle strolls around the antique shops in the Old Town, to exclusive shopping along the luxurious rue du Rhone, or thought-provoking visits to the UN or the Red Cross. And you won't spend precious time travelling to the city - a train from the airport to the city centre takes less than ten minutes.

Flight times

To coincide with the arrival of this new aircraft, they will be adding five new destinations to their route map: Antalya and Bodrum in Turkey, Corfu, Tunisia and the increasingly popular Egyptian Red Sea resort of Sharm el Sheikh. The flights to Turkey will also provide holiday makers with the opportunity to link up with one of the Thomson ships cruising around the Eastern Mediterranean.

Commenting on this news, Rob Goldsmith, Managing Director of Bournemouth Airport said: "To announce increased capacity and an exciting range of new routes in the current economic climate clearly shows the confidence that Thomson and First Choice have in Bournemouth Airport. Both operators offer holiday makers realistic prices and high standards, and I am confident these new routes will be a great success."

In addition to the new routes, Thomson and First Choice will also be operating to Malaga, Ibiza, Majorca, Paphos, Rhodes, Dalaman and Tenerife next summer.

For more information log onto www.thomson.co.uk or www.firstchoice.co.uk or visit your local travel agent.

The new service, which will operate every Tuesday and Saturday, will start on 6th June. This follows Ryanair's recent announcement of three new routes from Bournemouth to Barcelona Reus, Limoges and Faro.

Ryanair Sales & Marketing Executive Maria Macken said: "Ryanair is delighted to announce this new service from Bournemouth to Carcassonne which is the only low fares route connecting the UK's South Coast to the Languedoc Roussillon region of France. This new route will mean an extra 30,000 passengers per annum travelling to and from Bournemouth. Seats on this exciting new route to Carcassonne begin at just £27 one-way, including taxes and charges."

Commenting on these new routes, Rob Goldsmith, Managing Director of Bournemouth Airport said: "Limoges and Reus are both new destinations for the airport, whilst Faro has been a popular route for many years. Not only will these routes prove successful with local holiday makers jetting off to France, Spain and Portugal, we also hope that they will encourage more overseas visitors into our region."

To mark the launch of these new routes, seats begin at just £10 one way (inclusive of taxes and charges) for travel between 31st March and 31st May. To take advantage of this special offer bookings must be made before midnight on 29th January.

Flight details:
Bournemouth to Faro: Starts 31st March - flights every Tuesday and Friday
Bournemouth to Reus: Starts 31st March - flights every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday
Bournemouth to Limoges: Starts 2nd April - flights every Thursday and Saturday

More than 25,000 readers of the Daily Telegraph were recently polled in Britain's biggest survey of travel habits and in the 'best airport' category Singapore-Changi came first, Hong Kong second and Bournemouth third.

The awards were announced on Tuesday evening (25th November 2008).

Commenting on the airport's success, Managing Director Rob Goldsmith said: "I believe this really does demonstrate the important role for regional airports in providing their communities with a convenient, fast and friendly service. This is an incredible result. Everyone connected with the airport is to be congratulated and can be proud of this achievement."

Since its launch the bus has run hourly from 7am to 7pm, seven days a week between the airport and Bournemouth town centre. Operated by the Discover Dorset tour company, the 45 minute route includes two visits to the travel interchange and a loop around central Bournemouth to drop off and pick up passengers close to their hotels.

Commenting on the service, Managing Director of Bournemouth Airport, Rob Goldsmith said: "The shuttle bus has been a great success and, over the past year, we have seen a four-fold increase in the number of passengers travelling to the airport by bus. The operators have clearly thought about the type of operation our passengers require and are providing them with a first class service at a realistic price."

With 34 seats and standing room for a further 24, the bus features easy access for wheelchairs and luggage racks capable of carrying surfboards or skis. The drivers are known as 'ambassadors' and provide helpful, friendly advice for visitors to the area, as well as answering questions about the airport's development.

Tim Sanders from Discover Dorset added: "We are delighted to be celebrating such a successful start, and are constantly looking at ways of improving the service we offer. For example we can now provide 'through ticketing' with National Express and all trains operating from Bournemouth, so passengers only have to pay once for their whole journey."

For full details of the airport shuttle bus service log onto www.bournemouth-airport-shuttle.co.uk

The Shakespeare Schools Festival (SSF) is a unique arts-education initiative which enables young people to perform abridged productions of Shakespeare's most famous plays in their local professional theatre. Since 2000, SSF has put 65,000 11-16 year olds from 3,075 secondary schools on the stage. This October the UK-wide Festival will be held in 57 theatres including the Tivoli in Wimborne and the Kings Theatre in Winchester.

Travelling by Tuba aims to encourage children to appreciate music by showing them that music is great fun - whether playing or just listening. Musicians Stewart Death and Chris Cranham will be showcasing some of their weird and wonderful instruments including a Swiss Alpine Horn, African Kudu Horns, Sousaphone and even their famous 'exploding Tuba'. As well as performing in over 200 schools every year, Travelling by Tuba has a busy concert schedule as well.

Commenting on this sponsorship, Rob Goldsmith, Managing Director of Bournemouth Airport said: "As part of the Manchester Airport Group, we are delighted to be able to support so many local schools this year and give the young people who live in our region an opportunity to take part in these exciting events".

Work taking place over the next few weeks will include:

Provision of an interim security search area which will be used whilst the terminal redevelopment is in progress.

Closure of the existing entrance to the terminal and the installation of a temporary entrance to the side of the building. Once this is complete, work will start on extending the terminal building.

Changes to the arrivals hall which will include the relocation of one of the baggage belts.

Closure of the short term car park (Car Park 3). Short term car parking spaces are now available in Car Park 1; these offer 10 minutes free parking for those dropping off or picking up passengers.

Erection of a bund along the perimeter fence adjoining Parley Lane; this will be followed by tree planting along the airport boundary.

Commenting on the progress of the redevelopment, Rob Goldsmith, Managing Director of Bournemouth Airport said: "We are now moving into an extremely important phase within the redevelopment programme and we are very conscious of the fact that work within the terminal building could have an impact on our passengers. We will do out utmost to ensure that any inconvenience is kept to a minimum and would remind passengers to allow plenty of time to travel to the airport and for their journey through the terminal building."

Rob who has 19 years experience of working within the aviation industry has held various senior positions within the Manchester Airport Group (owners of Bournemouth Airport). This included a two year secondment to Australia as General Manager Business Development for Adelaide and Gold Coast Airports.

For the past six years Rob has been Managing Director of Humberside Airport and has also been responsible for aviation development at Humberside, Bournemouth and East Midlands Airports.

Commenting on this new appointment, Rob commented: "I am delighted to be joining Bournemouth Airport at such an exciting time. The Manchester Airport Group have shown their commitment by agreeing to invest £45 million in our redevelopment programme. I'm now looking forward to seeing the project through and to helping develop Bournemouth Airport's huge potential."

Rob, who has a postgraduate diploma in marketing and a master of science degree in transport management, is married with four children.

Peter Duffy, Managing Director of Bournemouth Airport explained that the scope of the project had increased significantly and will now include the installation of a much higher standard of navigation and lighting aids. "This will enable aircraft to operate in adverse weather conditions and it's an important factor when airlines are considering where they will base aircraft," he said.

"We were originally hoping to 'fast track' the building work but this was delayed by various factors beyond our control, such as a need to satisfy the requirements of some statutory consultees and the application for a judicial review by the New Forest National Park.

"However now that we have this additional funding secured, we will be able to move onto the next phase of the redevelopment within the next three or four weeks. A large amount of 'enabling works' have already been completed which will allow us to start work on the Apron and runway lighting in August. This will be followed very quickly by the commencement of work on an interim departure lounge, security facilities, the check in hall and additional car park facilities.

"We are aiming to complete the whole £45million project by Spring 2010, when we will have a modern, attractive airport without any significant operational characteristics that could limit its development in the future. During this time our emphasis will be on the safety and security of our passengers, as well as maintaining high levels of customer service during the redevelopment process," he concluded.

Notes to editors:
1. At present the terminal at Bournemouth Airport occupies a total of 5430 square metres. Within the proposed redevelopment programme approximately 1200 square metres will be replaced and 4600 square metres of new build will be added.

2. Passenger figures:
2000/01 267,000
2002/03 394,000
2004/05 494,000
2006/07 932,000
2008/09 1,239,000 (projected)

3. Bournemouth Airport offers flights to more than 40 destinations - these are predominantly leisure, holiday and city break destinations throughout Europe as well as some transatlantic flights to serve the winter fly-cruise market.

4. Bournemouth Airport is owned by the Manchester Airport Group (MAG) which is the largest British-owned airport company in the UK. The Group supports over 130,000 jobs nationwide and contributes £3.2 billion to the UK economy.

Wizz Air - the largest low fare, low cost airline in Central and Eastern Europe - started operating flights from Bournemouth to Poland last summer with the introduction of a direct route to Katowice Airport in the south of the country. Since its launch the service has carried over 30,000 passengers and this new route to Gdansk is sure to prove just as successful.

Gdansk is a great city break destination. Situated on the southern coast of the Baltic Sea, this 1000 year old city is Poland's maritime capital. As well as having a fascinating history with a wealth of museums and art galleries to visit, the city boasts a wide range of excellent restaurants, pubs and entertainment.

Commenting on this new route, Peter Duffy, Managing Director of Bournemouth Airport said: "Wizz Air's route to Katowice was our first scheduled service into Eastern Europe and I'm delighted that the airline has continued its commitment to Bournemouth by adding this second route to Poland".

Tickets for the flights start at £19.99 one way (including all taxes and charges) and are on sale at www.wizzair.com or by calling +48 22 351 94 99.

Flights to Gdansk will operate every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday:

Organised by the Dorset Music Service, this musical extravaganza takes place on Friday 4th April, and will see over 1200 young people from more than 120 schools across the County playing in front of an audience of around 5000 people. As its name suggests, the show will be a mix of different styles of music, dance and song all inspired by the Jurassic Coast.

Commenting on the sponsorship of Dorset Rocks!, Peter Duffy, Managing Director of Bournemouth Airport said: "As part of the Manchester Airport Group, we firmly believe that the arts play a vital role in enriching and enlivening our communities. We are delighted to sponsor this event which will give young people, who live in our region, a unique opportunity to perform in a world class venue".

Stephanie Sainsbury, Business Finance Manager, Dorset Music Service
Tel: 01258 457480
Email: s.a.sainsbury@dorsetcc.gov.uk

Speaking today, Ryanair's Communications Executive, Lorna Farren said: "We're delighted to announce yet another new route from Bournemouth to Edinburgh. With just over one month to go until the launch of our new Bournemouth base, more than 25,000 passengers have already snapped up bargains on our new routes to Malaga, Murcia, Nantes, Palma and Wroclaw."

This announcement means that Ryanair will soon be operating a double daily service to Scotland's two major cities, which is an important consideration for the local business community. Peter Scott, Chief Executive of Dorset Business commented: "This new Ryanair route will be of real value to the increasing number of businesses in the region who have clients and customers in Scotland. This now means that both Glasgow and Edinburgh will be accessible from Bournemouth as a day return destination."

The return of an Edinburgh route will also be popular with local holiday makers wanting to visit this stunning city, and with the local tourism industry who can see the potential for bringing visitors down to the south coast. Mike Francis, Chairman of the Bournemouth Tourism Management Board said: "This is great news for local tourism. Those living in Scotland can now reach Bournemouth in just over an hour and I'm hoping to see an increasing number of visitors taking advantage of this new route."

Ryanair's recent announcement that it is to base a $70 million aircraft at Bournemouth clearly demonstrates the airline's confidence in the region. It's an investment that will deliver one million passengers through the Airport each year, provide a £60 million boost for the local economy, and sustain 1000 jobs.

The Fund has four very clear objectives:

• To bring the community closer together through facilities for sport, recreation and other leisure time activities
• To offer environmental improvement and/or heritage conservation
• To improve awareness of environmental issues through environmental education
• To encourage and/or protect wildlife.

The Fund's management committee is made up of three representatives from Christchurch Borough Council and one representative from Bournemouth Airport, and they will meet twice a year to award grants to eligible projects. Funding comes from Bournemouth Airport. In the first year the Fund will be worth £10,000 and this will steadily rise as passenger numbers at the airport increase.

Commenting on this important step forward for the airport, Christopher Cockroft, Finance Manager and Chair of the Bournemouth Airport Community Fund Management Committee said: "We are very conscious of our need to be part of the local community and to support projects which offer lasting benefit to all members of this community. The representatives from Christchurch Borough Council will bring important, local knowledge to the Community Fund and ensure that the money is used to the maximum benefit of local residents."

Cllr Sally Derham Wilkes, Chairman of Christchurch Council's Community Services Committee added: "We're very grateful to the Airport for coming up with the funding for this wonderful community-based idea. I know there are a number of groups and organisations in the Borough who are crying out for a bit of money to purchase some important equipment or to get a project off the ground. We look forward to receiving some application forms so we can get the Community Fund off to a great start."

Full details about the Bournemouth Airport Community Fund and an application form can be downloaded from the websites for Bournemouth Airport and Christchurch Borough Council: www.bournemouthairport.com and www.dorsetforyou.com

From April 2008, Ryanair will base a Boeing 737-800 aircraft at Bournemouth Airport and will also increase the number of destinations from seven to twelve routes.

Five new routes commence in April to Malaga, Murcia, Nantes, Palma and Wroclaw, complementing the existing seven Ryanair routes operating from Bournemouth.

Bournemouth Airport's Managing Director, Peter Duffy said "We are thrilled that Ryanair have chosen Bournemouth as their latest base. The addition of five new routes and the based aircraft is fantastic news for the Airport as it will undoubtedly enhance investment and tourism for the region. We are looking forward to welcoming more passengers to Bournemouth in 2008 and with a new based aircraft and new destinations on offer, our passengers now have far greater choice than ever before."

To celebrate the new based aircraft at Bournemouth, Ryanair are giving away a free bonus return flight on any flights booked to or from Bournemouth Airport before midnight on Thursday 10th January 2008.

Seats are on sale today at www.ryanair.com. Ryanair already flies from Bournemouth to Alicante, Barcelona, Dublin, Glasgow, Marseille, Milan and Pisa from Bournemouth Airport. The new routes start from 3rd April 2008 and run until 24 October 2008 and are as follows:

The facility, called 'WebTrak', provides detailed information about aircraft that have landed or taken off from Bournemouth Airport and replays the track the aircraft has flown. Flight information is updated daily and is displayed 24 hours in arrears to maintain aviation security.

The Airport has teamed up with industry experts Lochard to provide the facility which uses data sourced from the Bournemouth radar. This includes all aircraft operations within a 30 mile radius of the Airport, with the exception of aircraft above 15,000 feet and some light aircraft. Other aircraft operating within the Airport's airspace that did not arrive or depart from Bournemouth will also be displayed but without the detailed information provided for Airport-related aircraft.

Until now, information about specific aircraft associated with the Airport could only be obtained by written request. By visiting the Airport's website, the public can now interrogate the system for themselves to obtain information such as the aircraft's track, altitude, airline and aircraft type.

Announcing the launch of WebTrak, Paul Knight, Bournemouth Airport's Operations Director said: When we applied for planning permission to redevelop the airport, we pledged to introduce an on-line system which would give members of the public detailed information about the aircraft landing and taking off from the Airport. We are fully committed to supporting our local community and want to be as transparent as possible about our operation. WebTrak provides this facility and gives everyone living and working in the area a clear picture about what is happening in the skies above them."

Since its foundation in 1991, market leader Lochard has built the world's foremost airport noise monitoring and flight track management solutions. They provide a complete suite of hardware and software products and have the most integrated airport noise management installations worldwide. Lochard's experience extends to over 130 airport customers worldwide.