# Cardiff Airport passenger growth and expansion

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/cardiff-airport-passenger-growth-and-expansion
> Updated: 2026-09-08T11:20:41.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

Cardiff Airport has experienced significant passenger growth throughout 2026. Following a 24% increase in the first quarter, the airport recorded a further 16% rise in passenger numbers during the second quarter, surpassing one million passengers in a 12-month period for the first time since the pandemic.

This growth has positioned the facility as the UK’s second fastest-growing airport. In addition to passenger volume increases, the airport has received positive recognition for customer experience, ranking fifth out of 27 UK airports in a survey by Which? and receiving high ratings for cleanliness and security. 

To support its expansion, the airport has seen new international connectivity, such as WestJet’s direct service to Toronto, though it faces some route challenges, including Vueling’s decision to discontinue certain winter services to Alicante and Malaga.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-08: Cardiff Airport ranks among UK’s best as passenger numbers rise

Cardiff Airport ranked fifth among 27 UK airports in a Which? survey, earning a 77% customer score amid significant passenger growth and new international routes to Canada.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cardiff-airport-ranks-among-uks-best-as-passenger-numbers-rise

### 2026-08-27: Cardiff Airport sees 16% passenger growth in second quarter

Cardiff Airport saw a 16% rise in passenger numbers in Q2, outperforming most UK airports as low-cost carriers drive a broader national aviation recovery.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cardiff-airport-sees-16-passenger-growth-in-second-quarter

---
Cite as: Cardiff Airport passenger growth and expansion. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/cardiff-airport-passenger-growth-and-expansion