Leeds Bradford Airport unveils “Together for Tomorrow”: A bold new strategy linking transformative growth with sustainability

Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) has officially launched “Together for Tomorrow,” a comprehensive sustainability strategy designed to guide the airport’s evolution into a modern, responsible, and future-ready gateway for Yorkshire. The strategy marks a pivotal moment for LBA and a fundamental shift in how the airport defines success, ensuring that its ambitious growth is inextricably linked to social value and environmental stewardship.

The launch comes as LBA has embarked on LBA:REGEN, its most transformative period in decades including a fundamental transformation and extension of the terminal building and £200m of private investment in the region. The new strategy formalises a holistic approach to being a responsible business, a supportive employer, and a good neighbour while leading the region’s transition to low-carbon aviation.

A Vision for a Sustainable Future “Together for Tomorrow” is built upon four key pillars, each featuring specific targets and measurable actions:

· Destination: Net Zero: LBA is committed to reaching Net Zero for Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030. Key actions include removing all gas from the terminal and generating energy through onsite renewable technologies. The airport is also part of a consortium leading a £1.5 million government-backed study into Power-to-Liquid Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

· Protecting Yorkshire: The airport is aiming for 10% of passengers to use public transport to and from the site and has introduced 100% Hybrid FLYER bus services. LBA has also partnered with the Aire Resilience Company to enhance regional biodiversity and continues to divert 100% of its waste from landfill.

· Connecting Communities: LBA will ensure at least 35% of its annual spend remains within local postcodes and has committed to creating a foundation to support local charitable causes.

· Putting People First: The strategy champions diversity, equity, and wellbeing, with a target of 10% of employees utilising annual volunteer time by 2030. LBA is also implementing a specialised Mental Health Programme with trained first aiders to support its workforce.

A Proven Track Record This roadmap builds on significant progress already achieved, including a 74% reduction in emissions since 2018 and achieving a 100% GRESB sustainability score in 2025. LBA has already transitioned its engineering fleet of vehicles to be fully electric and completed a switch to 100% LED lighting across its runway.

Transparency and Progress The strategy is overseen by the LBA Board of Directors and a dedicated ESG Committee to ensure transparency and accountability. Performance will be disclosed annually, aligning with leading sustainability frameworks and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Vincent Hodder, Chief Executive Officer of Leeds Bradford Airport, said “At Leeds Bradford Airport, we believe that the freedom to travel and the necessity of protecting our planet are not mutually exclusive. We are not just building a bigger airport; we are building a better one. Together for Tomorrow is more than a set of targets. It represents a fundamental shift in how we define success, placing sustainability at the heart of our decisions and long-term ambitions. It is our promise that as we deliver the international connectivity Yorkshire deserves, we do so with a clear conscience and a dedicated focus on the long-term well-being of our planet and our people”.

Kunaal Wharfe, General Counsel and Company Secretary at Leeds Bradford Airport, said: “A truly sustainable strategy must be built on a foundation of integrity,

transparency, and deep-rooted accountability. At LBA, we are moving beyond simple compliance to ensure that our ESG commitments are woven into the very fabric of our business operations. It is imperative that our growth is not just legally sound, but ethically driven.

By utilising specific, measurable KPIs and maintaining a strong moral compass in our decision-making, we are providing our stakeholders with the assurance that Together for Tomorrow is a promise we intend to keep. Whether it is through our commitment to inclusive infrastructure like our new multi-faith facilities or our rigorous governance frameworks, we are dedicated to creating an airport that reflects the diverse and vibrant community of Yorkshire while setting a benchmark for responsible business practices in aviation.”