The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT UK) has published a new policy paper analysing how air passengers travel to and from the UK's largest airports.

The paper, 'Airport Surface Access', examines passenger mode shares and trends at airports handling over 3 million passengers per year.

A principal concern for CILT is ensuring transport policies and procedures are effective, efficient and based on objective analysis.

Chair of CILT UK’s Aviation Policy Group, Paul Le Blond, said: "With airports being major generators of travel demand, it is vital that their surface access provisions allow passengers and staff to get to and from the site in a seamless and sustainable way. This paper highlights where progress has been made but also areas requiring further improvement."

Key findings of the report include:

• Analysis of Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) survey data showing the modes of transport used by passengers to access UK airports from 1972 to 2022
• A review of surface access issues, history and future plans at major airports
• Insights into factors influencing passengers' choice of airport transport such as journey purpose, origin and group size
• Comparisons with surface access provisions at selected European hub airports

The report was produced by CILT's Aviation Policy Group, with input from the organisation's specialist policy forums, regional branches and the Public Policy Committee. It aims to inform transport policymakers, airport operators, ground transport providers and others involved in improving the passenger experience.

CILT UK’s Director of Public Policy and Communications, Daniel Parker-Klein, said: "As a professional body, CILT seeks to share best practice to drive more efficient, sustainable logistics and transport solutions. This report highlights the importance of integrated transport policies to support our vital aviation sector while minimising impacts on local communities and the environment."

To read the full paper click here.