Bristol Airport has announced a National Express service for transport to and from South Wales following the withdrawal of coach operator First Group.
The move ensures the continuation of the only direct public transport link between South Wales and Bristol Airport. Cheaper than its predecessor, the new 216 service set for launch on March 1 will operate between Cardiff Bus Station and Bristol Airport, offering a direct public transport link for Welsh travellers who fly from the airport.
Operating 12 times a day in each direction, the 216 service is run by South Wales-based Edwards Coaches, reaching the airport from Cardiff Bus Station in just one hour and 20 minutes – 20 minutes faster than the outgoing service. It also calls at Cardiff University and Newport Rail Station.
Robert Sinclair, Chief Executive Officer at Bristol Airport, said: ‘The launch of a National Express service to and from Cardiff brings a high profile brand to the growing range of public transport options available to passengers using Bristol Airport, providing a convenient link to our route network for people and business in South Wales. It’s fantastic to have National Express on board and help strengthen the overall customer service offer of Bristol Airport.’
National Express Service Delivery Director, Kevin Gale said: ‘We are really pleased to be taking on this route which provides such an important link between South Wales and Bristol Airport. We are particularly pleased to be able to pay tribute to the Bristol’s amazing aviation history and the pivotal part it played in bringing the world’s fastest commercial aircraft to the world by naming our service the 216. We may not be quite as fast as a Concorde but our service, which is faster than its predecessor, links Bristol Airport to Cardiff in just one hour twenty minutes, offering unbeatable convenience for passengers.’
Featuring a ‘Bristol Airport Express’ livery, the new service vehicles are fully wheelchair accessible. The service includes the usual National Express provisions, viz. power sockets, leather seats and air-conditioning.
National Express tickets are on sale, with single fares starting from £13, with a 25 per cent discount available to those who book a return ticket.
