The new hourly A2 bus service which will link up even more towns and villages in North Somerset to Bristol Airport will launch on Easter Sunday.

In a bid to make it easier for more customers and staff to travel by bus, the Airport has fully funded this new route, which is operated by First Bus around the clock and run by North Somerset Council. It is hoped it will provide viable options for many residents travelling to and from their local Airport, help connect many communities in North Somerset as well as ease congestion on the roads.

The A2 also stops at Nailsea and Backwell train station which has direct links to Weston-super-Mare, Taunton and Exeter stations and is ideal for trains to Bristol Temple Meads and onwards connections for Bath, South Wales and London.

Dave Lees, Chief Executive at Bristol Airport said: “We’re really pleased to be able to launch the new route serving customers in Portishead, Clevedon, Nailsea and Backwell. We’ve been working hard to help ensure it’s even easier to travel to the Airport from North Somerset as well between local towns and villages using public transport. We hope it’s a great success.”

Cllr Hugh Malyan, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport at North Somerset Council, said: “Many residents have asked for improved transport links to Bristol Airport, and we’re delighted the A2 is being introduced to connect more communities in North Somerset. The A2 also has the bonus of offering local fares for local journeys, making it an option for people travelling around their area as well as abroad.”

A2 Airport Flyer Launch - credit NSC

The A2 timetable has also been designed with local schools in mind as well as onward travel by rail from Nailsea & Backwell station, so it’s not exclusively for airport customers and staff. When travelling to non-airport stops, fares will be the same as other local buses, and student and concessionary bus pass holders will also benefit from the same discounts.

Rob Pymm, Commercial Director of First Bus, added: “This latest service builds on our strong partnership with North Somerset Council and Bristol Airport. We look forward to welcoming customers on board for a high-quality journey experience using sustainable travel at the start and end of their getaway trips and for local journeys.”

The timetable is available on the Bristol Airport and First Bus website. Tickets will cost £5 for an adult single, £7 for an adult return, £4 for child single, £5 for a child return

and £20 for a family return (two adults and two children). Tickets can be booked via the Airport Website and First Bus website.