Traffic can build up around airports because of the large number of passengers, employees and suppliers accessing them.  In combination with non-airport traffic, local road transport networks can become congested. This affects businesses, local communities and the environment. Reducing congestion around airports and improving access via public transport was one of the key goals in the Government’s 2003 Air Transport White Paper.

Our primary aim, in relation to surface transport, is to minimise environmental impacts and congestion associated with traffic movements to and from the airport.   This will be delivered through increasing the use of public transport, or the use of alternatives to single-occupant vehicles. We seek to protect and develop public transport choices by fully implementing the aims and objectives of our Surface Access Strategy (weblink) in line with the Government’s White Paper. 

The strategy outlines a number of objectives with a target to increase the number of people using public transport to access the airport to 18.5% by 2011. A key focus of the strategy is to manage the number of people accessing the airport using private vehicles, instead of public transport  This involves promoting the use of the existing excellent transport links the airport has, such as the dedicated train station, just 99 steps from the terminal, and regular and reliable bus services, some of which stop directly outside the airport terminal building.

The strategy also aims to manage the number of vehicles which drop off at the airport, and then pick up passengers upon return, known as “kiss and fly” passengers, as this can double the number of trips and therefore congestion and environmental impacts.  By providing a balance in terms of the number of car parking spaces on site this return leg of the journey is eliminated. 

The strategy also embodies staff travel options, where there are several initiatives:

• Car share scheme - a scheme which matches staff which are able to car share
• Interest-free loans - interest-free loans are available to staff wishing to buy bicycles, mopeds or travel season tickets
• Cycle facilities - cycle storage facilities have been installed to allow cyclists to store their bike safely and undercover. There are also shower and changing facilities available to staff
• Cycle discounts - staff are offered a competitive discount on purchase of bicycles and accessories at Portswood Cycles in Southampton
• Bicycle User Groups (BUGS) - a bicycle user group has been successfully set-up so that regular users can voice their opinions and feedback on facilities. Cyclists signing-up to the scheme are given a welcome pack which includes a high visibility tabard and lights among other things.