Leeds Bradford Airport

Leeds Bradford Airport general information

If you’re flying from Leeds Bradford Airport, we’ve collected the ‘must-know’ information you’ll need in one easy-to-read guide.

Leeds Bradford Airport parking

Pre-booking your Leeds Bradford Airport parking with APH is an easy way to save money and enjoy a smoother start to your trip. Choose from convenient options including Meet and Greet parking, off-airport parking and airport hotels with parking packages. Booking in advance can also help secure lower prices and guarantee your space during busy travel periods.

View airport parking

All about Leeds Bradford Airport

Originally opened on 17 October 1931 as the Leeds and Bradford Municipal Aerodrome, Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) has grown into Yorkshire’s largest airport, serving more than 4.2 million passengers annually and offering flights to over 80 destinations across the UK and Europe.

Situated 681 ft (208 m) above sea level, it is the highest airport in England and was the UK’s 13th busiest airport by passenger numbers in 2024. Major airlines operating from LBA include Jet2.com and Ryanair, both of which have operating bases at the airport, alongside KLM, Aer Lingus and easyJet. Popular destinations include Amsterdam, Malaga, Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona, Dublin and Tenerife, with newer routes recently added to destinations such as Warsaw, Thessaloniki and Iceland.

Infrastructure investment manager InfraBridge currently owns Leeds Bradford Airport, while Spanish airport operator Aena has agreed to acquire a majority stake in the airport.

Getting There

Leeds Bradford Airport first opened in 1931 as the Leeds and Bradford Municipal Aerodrome. Today, it is Yorkshire’s largest airport and serves millions of passengers every year.

The airport offers flights to more than 80 destinations across the UK, Europe and beyond, with popular routes including:

By Car

Driving is often the most convenient way to reach Leeds Bradford Airport. The airport is located around 7 miles northwest of Leeds city centre and is easily accessible via:

• A658 Harrogate Road
• A65 from Leeds
• M1 and M62 motorway connections

Pre-booking parking can help speed up your arrival and reduce costs.

By Train

There is currently no direct rail station at Leeds Bradford Airport. The nearest major train stations are:

• Leeds Station
• Bradford Interchange

From both stations, passengers can connect to the airport using local bus services.

By Bus

The Flyer bus service provides regular routes between the airport and:

• Leeds
• Bradford
• Harrogate

Services operate frequently throughout the day and evening.

Check-in information

Leeds Bradford Airport recommends arriving:

• At least 2 hours before short-haul flights
• Around 3 hours before peak summer departures or international flights

Security can become busy during school holidays and weekends, so allowing extra time is recommended.

Destinations

Leeds Bradford Airport offers direct flights to over 80 destinations across Europe and the UK.

Popular destinations include:

• Malaga
• Alicante
• Faro
• Palma de Mallorca
• Tenerife
• Amsterdam
• Dublin
• Antalya
• Prague
• Paris

Both leisure and business routes are available year-round, with additional seasonal holiday destinations during summer and winter.

Disabled Passenger Details

Leeds Bradford Airport provides a range of accessibility services for passengers requiring additional support.

Facilities include:

• Special assistance support points
• Accessible toilets
• Assistance through security and boarding
• Wheelchair support
• Hidden disability assistance

Passengers are advised to contact their airline or travel provider at least 48 hours before departure if assistance is required.

Find details of how Leeds Bradford Airport helps passengers with hidden disabilities such as autism here.

Fast-Track security lane

Fast Track Security is available for passengers wanting quicker access through airport security.

Benefits include:

• Dedicated security lane
• Reduced queue times
• Faster access to departures

Prices and availability vary depending on travel dates.

Pushchairs and Child Seats

Pushchairs can usually be taken through the airport to the departure gate before being placed in the aircraft hold. Child car seat policies vary by airline, so travellers should check directly with their carrier before flying.

Family Assisted Lanes

Dedicated family security lanes may be available during busy periods to help families travelling with young children move through security more easily.

Shopping

Leeds Bradford Airport has a variety of shops for travel essentials, gifts, food and duty-free shopping.

Available retailers typically include:

• World Duty Free
• WHSmith
• Boots
• Travel accessories and fashion outlets

Passengers can shop both before and after security. Here’s a full list of the shops at Leeds Bradford Airport and whether they’re located before or after security.

Where to Eat

There are several cafés, restaurants and bars available throughout the airport terminal, including options for:

• Breakfast
• Coffee and snacks
• Family meals
• Grab-and-go food
• Alcoholic drinks

Popular airport dining brands may vary seasonally. Here's a full list of places to eat at Leeds Bradford Airport.  

Area for Kids

The airport offers family-friendly facilities to help keep children comfortable before boarding, including baby changing areas and child-friendly dining options. While there is no large dedicated play zone, families can make use of seating areas and airport cafés before departure.

Wi-Fi access

Unlimited free Wi-Fi is available throughout Leeds Bradford Airport terminal buildings.

Passengers simply need to connect to the airport Wi-Fi network and follow the login instructions. For details on how to connect, click here.

Baby Changing

Baby changing facilities are available throughout the terminal, including both landside and airside areas.

Luggage Trolleys

Luggage trolleys are available within the airport terminal and car park areas. Charges may apply depending on the location. For more details click here.  

Luggage Lockers

Leeds Bradford Airport does not currently offer public luggage storage or locker facilities within the terminal. Passengers should check with their airline or travel provider if they require alternative baggage storage options nearby.

Showers

Public shower facilities are not currently available at Leeds Bradford Airport.

Chapel

A quiet prayer and reflection area is available for passengers, visitors and airport staff. Chaplaincy support is also available at the airport.