Business

The role of private aviation in Welsh air travel today

Published

9 months ago

March 24, 2025

Wales might not be the first country you think of when it comes to private aviation, but you’ll be surprised to find that it does play a nuanced role in the nation, especially in Pembrokeshire. While Wales isn’t home to many private airports or billionaire jet-setters, private flights play a vital role in the Welsh aviation economy. This article explores the state of private aviation in Wales, its implications for Pembrokeshire residents, and how it compares to the broader UK private aviation sector.

At a glance

Wales’ primary airport is Cardiff Airport (CWL), located in the Vale of Glamorgan. Historically, Cardiff Airport has seen fluctuating passenger numbers, with a peak of approximately 2.1 million passengers in 2007. However, by 2019, this number had declined to around 1.65 million. The COVID-19 pandemic further impacted these figures, with passenger numbers dropping to approximately 219,984 in 2020 and 123,825 in 2021. There was a partial recovery in 2022, with passenger numbers reaching 859,805.

Cardiff Airport primarily serves commercial flights but also accommodates private aviation needs. However, the lack of dedicated private jet facilities means that amenities such as luxury lounges, concierge services, and dedicated terminals are limited compared to other regions. This has implications for Welsh residents, particularly those in Pembrokeshire, who rely on private aviation for business and leisure. For long-haul flights, some Welsh residents prefer to fly first-class to Heathrow before switching to a private jet charter.

Welsh private aviation infrastructure

Wales lacks dedicated private jet airports that cater exclusively to private aviation. Private flights typically utilise facilities at Cardiff Airport, which has its fixed-base operator, Signature Aviation. Passengers can enjoy a private check-in, exclusive lounges, and complimentary refreshments.

Unfortunately, experienced private travellers who are used to flying from Farnborough or London City Airport may find services here to be lacking compared to private airports. As a result, private aviation in Wales remains underdeveloped, limiting its appeal to high-net-worth individuals and corporate travellers.

Air travel in Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire does not have a commercial airport, so residents must rely on car transfers to access larger airports like Cardiff Airport or airports in England for commercial and private flights. The region is served by Haverfordwest Airport (Withybush Airport), a small airfield primarily used for general aviation and flight training.

Haverfordwest Airport is a valuable resource for local aviation enthusiasts, but it hardly suits the needs of most Pembrokeshire residents as it lacks the infrastructure to support larger private jets. For Pembrokeshire residents, private aviation often involves travelling to Cardiff or across the border to England, adding time and complexity to their travel plans.

Wales vs the rest of the UK

Wales lags behind England in the private aviation sector. In 2024, 12,702 private jet flights were made in the UK, most of which departed from English airfields. This is not necessarily due to a lack of demand in Wales; England has an established private aviation infrastructure, so even Welsh private travellers will drive to destinations like Bristol or Birmingham for their charter flight.

For example, London Luton Airport and Farnborough Airport are major international hubs for private aviation, offering state-of-the-art facilities and services tailored to high-net-worth individuals. In contrast, Wales’ limited infrastructure means it has not experienced similar growth. This disparity highlights the need for investment in private aviation hubs for Wales to serve its residents better and attract high-value travellers.

What does this all mean for Pembrokeshire residents?

For Pembrokeshire residents, the limited access to commercial and private aviation necessitates reliance on ground transfers to access larger airports. This reliance can add time and complexity to travel plans, making private aviation less convenient compared to regions with dedicated facilities.

For example, a Pembrokeshire resident looking to fly privately to London or Europe would need to travel to Cardiff Airport or an English airport like Bristol or Exeter. This additional travel time can offset the convenience of private aviation, particularly for short-haul flights. However, the benefits of private travel outweigh those of commercial flight when travelling long-haul, even if it means a couple of hours’ drive beforehand.

A sleeping giant of private aviation

It’s clear to see that private aviation in Wales is slightly choked by the sheer availability and height of resources in the nation next door. While the UK has seen growth in private aviation, a very small portion of that is taking place in Welsh airfields due to the lack of infrastructure. Addressing these infrastructure gaps could enhance accessibility and convenience for Welsh travellers opting for private charters, but such developments would need to balance economic benefits with environmental considerations.

For now, Pembrokeshire residents must navigate the limited local aviation infrastructure, relying on nearby airports and car transfers to access private jet facilities. However, with strategic investments and a focus on sustainability, Wales has the potential to develop a thriving private aviation sector that meets the needs of its residents and attracts high-value visitors from around the world.

Business

Holiday lets allowed to stay at Narberth dairy farm

Published

14 hours ago

December 5, 2025

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

A CALL for a Pembrokeshire dairy farm to keep two “alternative” holiday pods sited without permission as a way of diversifying in an uncertain industry has been given the go-ahead.

In an application recommended for approval at the December meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee, Vaynor Farm Ltd sought retrospective permission for the siting of two self-catering holiday accommodation pods at The Cart House, Vaynor Farm, Bethesda, near Narberth as part of a farm diversification enterprise.

It was before committee members as it was recommended for delegated conditional approval by senior officers despite being against the development plan.

Previous retrospective schemes, for two self-catering pods along with an application to retain a shepherd hut accommodation pod at another farm, a part of the Vaynor Farm farm enterprise, were refused in 2023 and 2025, the latter due to “an unjustified and harmful impact on the character and appearance of the open countryside”.

Detailing the current application, an officer report for members said the pods: Vaynor Farm Pod within the garden of The Cart House, and The Paddock Pod, on the edge of a small paddock, were constructed off-site and have been transported to their current locations, with external decking, hot tubs, a barbecue area and car parking provided for each pod.

It added: “A business plan has been submitted with the application, which explains that due to uncertainties associated with dairy farming, the applicant has sought to diversify the farm enterprise to incorporate tourism accommodation.

“The application makes the case that the proposed development represents farm diversification. It is acknowledged that the development has resulted in the provision of an alternative type of holiday accommodation for which it has been demonstrated there is a demand, contributing to the diversity and quality of accommodation available within the county and supporting an existing farm business, with consequent economic and social benefits.

“Evidence has been provided that demonstrates the extent to which the pods have provided income which has been used to support the farm business.

“However, officers consider that should planning permission be granted, a [planning obligation] will be necessary to ensure that the accommodation pods continue to support the farm business and are not separated from it at some future point in time.”

Delegated conditional approval limiting the use and occupation of the self-catering accommodation pods to short term holiday use only was moved by Cllr Brian Hall and unanimously backed by committee members.

Business

First wind turbine components arrive as LNG project moves ahead

Published

1 day ago

December 4, 2025

Tom Sinclair

THE FIRST ship carrying major components for Dragon LNG’s new onshore wind turbines docked at Pembroke Port last week, marking the start of physical deliveries for the multi-million-pound renewable energy project.

The Maltese-registered general cargo vessel Peak Bergen berthed at Pembroke Dock on Wednesday 26^th November, bringing tower sections and other heavy components for the three Enercon turbines that will eventually stand on land adjacent to the existing gas terminal at Waterston.

A second vessel, the Irish-flagged Wilson Flex IV, has arrived in Pembroke Port today (Thursday) carrying the giant rotor blades.

The deliveries follow a successful trial convoy on 25 November, when police-escorted low-loader trailers carried dummy loads along the planned route from the port through Pembroke, past Waterloo roundabout and up the A477 to the Dragon LNG site.

Dragon LNG’s Community and Social Performance Officer, Lynette Round, confirmed the latest movements in emails to the Herald.

“The Peak Bergen arrived last week with the first components,” she said. “We are expecting another delivery tomorrow (Thursday) onboard the Wilson Flex IV. This will be blades and is currently showing an ETA of approximately 03:30.”

The £14.3 million project, approved by Welsh Ministers last year, will see three turbines with a combined capacity of up to 13.5 MW erected on company-owned land next to the LNG terminal. Once operational – expected in late 2026 – they will generate enough electricity to power the entire site, significantly reducing its carbon footprint.

The Weather conditions were favourable for the arrival of the Wilson Flex IV, which was tracking south of the Smalls at midnight.

The abnormal-load convoys carrying the components from the port to Waterston are expected to begin early next year, subject to final police and highway approvals.

A community benefit fund linked to the project will provide for residents in nearby Waterston, Llanstadwell and Neyland.

Further updates will be issued by Dragon LNG as the Port of Milford Haven as the delivery programme continues.

Photo: Martin Cavaney

Business

Cardiff Airport announces special Air France flights for Six Nations

Published

1 day ago

December 4, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Direct services to Paris-Charles de Gaulle launched to cater for Welsh supporters, French fans and couples planning a Valentine’s getaway

CARDIFF AIRPORT and Air France have unveiled a series of special direct flights between Cardiff (CWL) and Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) scheduled for February 2026.

Timed to coincide with two major dates — the Wales v France Six Nations clash on Saturday 15 February and Valentine’s weekend — the flights are designed to offer supporters and holidaymakers an easy link between the two capitals.

For travelling French rugby fans, the services provide a straightforward route into Wales ahead of match day at the Principality Stadium, when Cardiff will once again be transformed by the colour, noise and passion that accompanies one of the tournament’s most eagerly awaited fixtures.

For Welsh passengers, the additional flights offer a seamless escape to Paris for Valentine’s Day, as well as opportunities for short breaks and onward travel via Air France’s wider global network.

Cardiff Airport CEO Jon Bridge said: “We’re thrilled to offer direct flights to such a vibrant and exciting city for Valentine’s weekend. Cardiff Airport is expanding its reach and giving customers fantastic travel options. We’ve listened to passenger demand and are delighted to make this opportunity possible. There is more to come from Cardiff.”

Tickets are already on sale via the Air France website and through travel agents.

Special flight schedule

Paris (CDG) → Cardiff (CWL):