British airports seek to become ‘world’s most welcoming’

A new joint effort is aiming to make airports in Britain the ‘most welcoming’ airports worldwide.

Travel Insurance News - 13/02/2012

<< BAA: Snow struggles to stay at Heathrow | Travel News | US carriers see good year for on-time performance >>

The news came via a press release issued last week, which said the program features support from several airport operators, industry figureheads as well as the tourism minister, John Penrose. Officials noted the effort comes just before the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics and that the initiative is being spearheaded by the ‘Welcome Audit and Improvement Plan’.

“Our airports play a vital role in a visitor’s first impression of a destination, both from overseas and at home,” said VisitEngland’s chief executive, James Berresford. He added, “This is particularly important during one of the most exciting years for tourism in England and the event today is a great example of the industry working together to make England’s airports the most welcoming in the world”.

Carl Lapworth, head of operations for Leeds Bradford airport, said, “We are delighted to be involved in this project which gives airports across the country an opportunity to come together and share best practice on how to offer passengers with a warm welcome. One of our core business priorities is to deliver excellent customer service every day, at every touch point through the airport.”

Other airports taking part in the scheme include Luton, Stansted, Gatwick, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle, East Midlands and Bristol.

<< BAA: Snow struggles to stay at Heathrow | Travel News | US carriers see good year for on-time performance >>