Welsh Government Allocates £206 Million to Cardiff Airport

Cardiff Airport is set to receive over £206 million from the Welsh Government to boost passenger numbers and enhance facilities, aiming for an increase to two million passengers annually within the next decade. Economy Minister Ken Skates emphasized the airport's vital role in the Welsh economy, contributing £200 million yearly and serving as a key entry point for tourists and investors. The investment, part of a long-term strategy to attract new airlines and routes, has faced criticism from opposition parties, particularly from Conservative Shadow Transport Minister Natasha Asghar, who labeled it a 'vanity project' and called for the airport's sale. Since its acquisition in 2013, the Welsh Government's total investment in the airport will approach £400 million, pending approval from the Competition and Markets Authority. The funding will support upgrades to the terminal and diversification efforts, including increasing revenues from non-passenger-related activities. The airport is also working to resume its Qatar Airways service, which has not yet returned post-pandemic.