Robert will be a panellist in the Regional Airports Roundtable session on Wednesday 6th November, as part of the 20th Annual Global Airport Development Conference, Nice, 5 - 9 November 2013.
What is the most important thing you are working on this year?
Planning permission is in place for development which will enable Bristol Airport to handle 10 million passengers per annum (from six million today). It’s a long-term vision which comprises 30 separate projects. We are currently working on the next piece of the jigsaw - a new central walkway to reduce congestion in the departure lounge and provide improved boarding facilities for airlines. We are also seeing passenger numbers return to record levels, so we are starting to re-orientate the business back to more of a growth phase.
The last few years have seen a big focus on the passenger experience across the industry – where are best returns on this investment to be found?
We have focused on keeping the passenger experience as speedy and stress-free as possible, investing in additional security search channels and a second immigration point to address these potential bottlenecks in the airport journey. Providing services for business travellers is also important. That is why our new Aspire Lounge is 50 per cent bigger than the previous facility, with a much improved product for passengers. Our airlines recognise the level of investment in Airport facilities and that gives them confidence to expand their own capacity at Bristol.
Where has progress been made in airport-airline relations and what continues to give you the biggest headaches?
Our strategy is to maintain a balanced portfolio of airlines across the low-cost, full-service and charter sectors to ensure the best possible range of services for passengers. The challenge is to reconcile the long-term vision required to build new infrastructure with the volatility of the airline industry. We invest a lot of time in building and maintaining strong relationships which help both parties to plan confidently for the future. We also take a very methodical approach to route development – making sure there is a sustainable market for our airlines.
What market trends are having the biggest impact on your business?
The introduction of new technology to the check in and security processes continues to change the dynamics of the passenger journey and, in turn, the way we plan and develop new facilities. New technology is also enabling us to engage far more directly with passengers.
Tell us about something innovative your airport has done recently . . .
Earlier this year Bristol Airport became the first in the UK to achieve WorldHost Recognised Business status. WorldHost is a world-class customer service programme and was used to train volunteers at the London 2013 Olympics. Hundreds of our team have already completed training, and the aim is for everyone in a customer-facing role to go through the process.
What do you predict will be the biggest changes in the industry in the long term (10+ years)?
New aircraft technology will not only bring environmental benefits, it could also be a game changer for regional airports. Increased range capability and reduced fuel consumption will make more new routes viable, enabling airlines to consider alternatives to congested and expensive hub airports.
Robert Sinclair joined Bristol Airport as CEO in 2008, bringing a broad range of airport management and general business experience with him to the role. Since joining Bristol, Robert has worked with his senior management team to lead the business through the recession in the UK, achieving passenger growth, delivering improved airport facilities and services and securing the planning application to significantly expand the airport. Prior to his role at Bristol Airport, Robert was CFO at Auckland Airport.
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