50 million passenger milestone for LJLA

Today may be unlucky for some but for one passenger at Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LJLA) their luck was in when they triggered celebrations and helped the Airport reach yet another significant milestone.

JLA staff celebrated the 50 millionth passenger to pass through the Airport since it was officially opened back in July 1933, as they were being checked-in on easyJet’s flight to Belfast. To mark the special occasion Airport Management and easyJet staff presented Helen Lace with a flight voucher and a bottle of champagne. Helen, from Prescott was delighted and said: “I’m flying to Belfast for a reunion with old friends. This is a lovely surprise and I’m amazed that I’m the Airport’s 50 millionth passenger. I’ll be looking to book somewhere hot and sunny with my easyJet flight voucher.”

Over 31 million of the 50 million passengers have used the Airport in the last 10 years since the acquisition of the Airport by owners Peel Holdings. easyJet have carried over 18 million passengers since commencing services from Liverpool in 1997.

Neil Pakey, Peel Airport’s Deputy CEO, said: “It is a remarkable achievement for LJLA to be celebrating its 50 millionth passenger in this our 75th Anniversary year. Peel’s substantial investment over the last 10 years has certainly paid off for the region. The Airport has continued to move up the league table of UK airports, has increased its passengers numbers eight fold and last year won the prestigious accolade of ‘UK Airport of the Year 2007′. Most importantly Peel’s investment has provided Liverpool with the key air links it desperately needed.”

Carly Brear, easyJet UK commercial Manager, said: "This is an exciting day for John Lennon Airport and easyJet is delighted to be part of the celebrations by carrying the Airport’s 50 millionth passenger today. easyJet and LJLA have an excellent relationship and we look forward to carrying millions of more passengers together in the years to come."

Next month LJLA has even more reason to celebrate as it reaches its next milestone, the 75th Anniversary of the opening of Liverpool Airport in July 1933.

To help make the 75th Anniversary one to remember, Friends of Liverpool Airport (FoLA) and The Jetstream Club have jointly organised a special celebration day at the site of the landmark grade II listed former terminal building which is now the Liverpool Marriott Hotel South on Sunday 29th June. For further information log on to www.fola.org.uk.