AROUND 350,000 passengers are expected to pass through Bristol Airport throughout the Christmas period (December 16 to January 3).

Approximately 20,000 passengers are expected to fly into and out of the airport on Boxing Day alone.

This year's festive season will be busier than 2020 or 2021 but will see fewer passengers than in 2019 (pre-Covid). 

Flights to northern Finland, the Republic of Ireland, the Netherlands and Switzerland have been busy. Skiers are also set to pass through the airport in numbers.

Passengers have been advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their flight time to mitigate for the high demand.

They should also keep their presents unwrapped and check with airlines before bringing Christmas crackers on their flights.

A Bristol Airport spokesperson said: “During the lead-up to Christmas, Lapland flights have proved popular for families wishing to experience a special family Christmas holiday.

“A wide range of European and UK destinations continue to provide customers the choice and the opportunity to get away and visit family and friends over the festive period.

“The top destinations for customers will include Dublin, Amsterdam and Geneva.

“Also, Bristol Airport will see its largest-ever ski programme this winter with a new series of flights to Toulouse with Crystal Ski and TUI. 

“During the busy Christmas holiday period, passengers are advised to allow extra journey time to the Airport and to arrive at check-in at least a minimum of two hours prior to scheduled departure time. 

“If travelling with presents, passengers are asked to keep them unwrapped and check with the airline if wanting to take Christmas crackers away, as many airlines refuse to carry crackers on board the aircraft.”

Bristol Airport is located near Yatton and Winford in North Somerset and is around eight miles south from Bristol city centre.