The day the airport's runway extension was officially opened in November 1987, Wardair commenced transatlantic flights to Toronto.The day the airport's runway extension was officially opened in November 1987, Wardair commenced transatlantic flights to Toronto.
The day the airport's runway extension was officially opened in November 1987, Wardair commenced transatlantic flights to Toronto.

31 of the best photos take you back to Leeds Bradford Airport in the 1980s

These wonderful photos are sure to evoke memories for a generation of holidaymakers.

By Andrew Hutchinson
Published 20th Apr 2024, 11:30 BST

They chart life at Leeds Bradford Airport in the 1980s. It was a decade brought huge change at the airport which included a runway extension, the redevelopment of the terminal building, a row over night flights and a visit from Concorde. READ MORE: 43 closed Leeds pubs which will stir fond memories for drinkers LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook YEP NEWSLETTERS: Sign up for free news and sport emails

The crowd watching the first British Airways Concorde arrive at Leeds Bradford Airport. Were you among them in April 1987?

7. LBA in the 1980s

The crowd watching the first British Airways Concorde arrive at Leeds Bradford Airport. Were you among them in April 1987? Photo: YPN

Photo Sales
Cargo is unloaded in October 1981. Freight facilities at the airport were always busy in the early 1980s.

8. LBA in the 1980s

Cargo is unloaded in October 1981. Freight facilities at the airport were always busy in the early 1980s. Photo: YPN

Photo Sales
Work on the runway extension gets going in June 1982.

9. LBA in the 1980s

Work on the runway extension gets going in June 1982. Photo: YPN

Photo Sales
An aerial view of Leeds Bradford Airport showing the progress of the runway extension in August 1982.

10. LBA in the 1980s

An aerial view of Leeds Bradford Airport showing the progress of the runway extension in August 1982. Photo: YPN

Photo Sales
The airport tunnel which would allow traffic to pass under the runway extension takes shape alongside the Bradford to Harrogate Road. Pictured in April 1983.

11. LBA in the 1980s

The airport tunnel which would allow traffic to pass under the runway extension takes shape alongside the Bradford to Harrogate Road. Pictured in April 1983. Photo: YPN

Photo Sales
Brand new landing lights on the Horsforth side of the runway were brought into operation in May 1983.

12. LBA in the 1980s

Brand new landing lights on the Horsforth side of the runway were brought into operation in May 1983. Photo: YPN

Photo Sales
Previous
2 / 6
Next Page
Related topics:LeedsLeeds Bradford Airport

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.