Durham Tees Valley Airport in County Durham, northeast England, has unveiled its plans for a series of improvement works designed to modernize the terminal and improve the experience for business passengers.
The first phase of the investment program will be completed by the end of September 2017, and will involve extensive remodeling of the departure lounge and inclusion of designated workstations, charging points, and improved retail services under a new ‘Xpress’ brand. Passengers will also have access to free unlimited wi-fi.
The second phase, which could start as early as the fall, will see further improvements, including the return of tax-free shopping and a major upgrade of the business lounge area.
In addition, there will be a revamp of the Airport’s Privilege Membership Club with exclusive discounts and offers for travelers and, as part of the drive to provide the best level of customer service, staff will be undertaking a World Host Accreditation training program.
Robert Hough, chairman of Durham Tees Valley Airport, said, “This program of improvements in the terminal is another stage in our continuing investment at Durham Tees Valley and the overall developments being implemented through the masterplan, including, for example, the drive to attract more general aviation activity and providing a one-stop service for all aspects of ground handling.
“These improvements in the terminal, which in part have been supported through the Passenger Facility Fee, are all aimed at enhancing a low-hassle, comfortable and business friendly environment for passengers while they are with us. A key element, of course, is customer service, which is why we are developing our training for staff.”
Warner Rootliep, general manager for Air France KLM in the UK and Ireland, said, “We currently offer three daily flights from Durham Tees Valley to our hub at Amsterdam Schiphol with seamless and convenient connections to exciting destinations worldwide. For this reason, we welcome the new investment in the terminal facilities, which will greatly improve the customer experience for our loyal passengers in the Tees Valley region. We have a long-standing successful relationship with Durham Tees Valley Airport and look forward to the unveiling of the new facilities in the near future.”