Andrew Bell, CEO of Regional & City Airports, reflects on the heartwarming Christmas festivities at Bournemouth Airport.

As the CEO of Regional & City Airports (RCA), I am always inspired by the ways in which our airports can positively impact the communities we serve.

This festive season, Bournemouth Airport, a key part of the RCA family, exemplified this spirit of community engagement and educational enrichment through our latest fun-filled encounter with our neighbours at Parkfield School.

Kicking off the bustling holiday season, over 60 children from Parkfield School brought festive cheer to passengers at Bournemouth Airport with a heartwarming Christmas concert, filling the terminal with a selection of carols and songs to create an atmosphere of joy and community spirit. 

It was not just the passengers who were treated to this delightful performance; Santa and his Elf joined the festivities, adding to the excitement. The children also had the chance to explore one of our airport's fire engines, learning about the crucial role of our fire crew in ensuring airport safety.

This event was not just a festive gathering but a continuation of a relationship that extends beyond the airport's gates, underscoring our commitment to fostering future skills and nurturing curiosity in young minds. Earlier this year, Parkfield School students had an enriching educational experience at Bournemouth Airport when more than 200 students had the opportunity to tour a 'flying classroom' aircraft from Cranfield University, gaining insights into careers in aviation and the wonders of flight engineering. 

Our collaboration with the teachers and children of Parkfield is a testament to RCA's dedication to community involvement and educational support. As we work towards being a catalyst for regional growth and development, initiatives like these play a crucial role. They not only enhance our relationship with the community but also align with our broader goals of inspiring the next generation of aviation professionals.

The Christmas concert and the educational tour of the flying classroom are reflections of our commitment to the communities we serve. These events embody the spirit of RCA - blending operational excellence with community involvement and educational outreach - and are vivid reminders of the role airports play in not just connecting destinations, but in enriching lives and fostering opportunities.

At RCA, we believe that our airports are more than just travel hubs; they are integral parts of the communities they serve. As we move forward, we remain committed to strengthening these ties, fostering a spirit of collaboration and learning, and ensuring that our airports continue to be places where community and innovation thrive together.

As we celebrate the successes of the past year and look forward to new opportunities, I invite our partners, stakeholders, and the communities we serve to join us in this journey. Together, we can continue to make a positive impact, not just during the festive season but throughout the year, forging a future where aviation and community go hand in hand.