LEEDS Bradford Airport has reopened to passengers, with its first flight since lockdown taking off yesterday as part of a Covid-19 restart project.

A spokesman said: "The gradual resumption of arrivals and departures follows months of preparation by staff at LBA. Working closely with airlines and partners, the airport has implemented a range of measures in line with the latest guidance from the Government to keep passengers and staff safe."

On arrival at the airport passengers will pass through a new "preparation zone" - and because of this they are advised to allow for extra time to travel

Only travelling passengers will be allowed to enter the building, with exemptions for those needing assistance.

All travellers will be required to wear face coverings in the terminal – available to buy before security via self-service machines, but purchase in advance is advised. Exemptions will be made for children and those with specific medical conditions

Social distancing measures will be in place per household in line with the latest government guidelines

Passengers will be directed to several hand washing and sanitiser stations throughout the terminal, and LBA Customer Ambassadors will be in operation throughout the terminal to offer direction and to deal with passenger concerns. Fast track is currently unavailable

The airport says deep cleaning is in operation, including the regular use of water-based antibacterial misters on frequent touch-points such as luggage trollies, security trays and washroom facilities

All shops are currently closed but vending machines will be in operation with hand sanitation available

Joanna Wild, Chief Commercial Officer at LBA, said: “We’re delighted to welcome back passengers as lockdown measures are eased but appreciate that some people may be feeling apprehensive at the prospect of flying again. We want to reassure everybody that our number one priority is to make the airport a safe place for our passengers and staff.

“To do this, we have put many new measures in place, with clear guidance provided for people passing through the terminal. It’s crucial that people using the airport continue to recognise the importance of fundamentals like washing their hands, using appropriate face coverings, and maintaining social distancing.”

Over the coming weeks, airlines will be resuming flights at LBA in stages. The current plan is - Ryanair June 21, Eastern Airways June 29, KLM July 4, Jet2 July 15, Aer Lingus August 1.

LBA recommends that all passengers refer to their airline’s Covid-19 procedures ahead of flying, as there could be variation. The airport is also directing passengers to its coronavirus advice page: https://www.leedsbradfordairport.co.uk/coronavirus.