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Cardiff Airport CWL

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CWL Airport Insights & Guide

Key CWL Airport Topics:

Frequent Flier Tips

To help make your experience at Cardiff International Airport (CWL) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from CWL-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"Cardiff International Airport is relatively small, which makes it easy to navigate. The key is to head straight to security as soon as you check in because the lines can get long during peak times. Once you're through security, everything is within a short walking distance." — Rhys T., Barry, Wales, August 2023

"If you're flying with TUI or KLM, make sure to check the departure boards frequently as gate changes can happen last minute. The airport staff are usually very helpful if you need directions." — Megan L., Penarth, Wales, July 2023

Getting To/From the City

"The T9 bus service is a reliable way to get to Cardiff city center from the airport. It runs every 20 minutes and is quite affordable. Alternatively, you can take a taxi, but it will cost you significantly more." — Gareth H., Rhoose, Wales, September 2023

"If you're driving, the airport is well-signposted from the M4 motorway. Just follow the signs for Cardiff Airport, and you'll get there without any trouble." — Sian M., Bridgend, Wales, October 2023

Parking

"For long-term parking, it's best to book in advance online to save money. The Long Stay car park is a short shuttle ride away from the terminal, and the shuttle runs frequently." — Dylan P., Cowbridge, Wales, November 2023

"If you're just dropping someone off, use the Short Stay car park. It's right next to the terminal and free for the first 10 minutes, which is usually enough time for a quick drop-off." — Carys J., Llantwit Major, Wales, December 2023

Inside the Airport

"The departure lounge has a good selection of shops and eateries. If you have time, I recommend grabbing a bite at The Beer House; they have some great local ales." — Owain R., Dinas Powys, Wales, January 2024

"Don't miss the duty-free shop; they often have special offers that are worth checking out. Also, there's free Wi-Fi throughout the airport, which is great for passing the time." — Bethan K., Pontyclun, Wales, February 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Arrive at least two hours before your flight to avoid any last-minute stress. Security can get busy, especially during holiday seasons, so give yourself plenty of time." — Eleri W., Caerphilly, Wales, March 2024

"Keep an eye on the flight information screens and listen for announcements. Delays can happen, but the airport staff are pretty good at keeping everyone informed." — Tomos G., Newport, Wales, April 2024

iFly Tip: Get all the information you need about airport parking on our comprehensive guide.

Helpful Tips & Resources

Is Vale of Glamorgan Airport (CWL) airport a bit unfamiliar to you? Look no further than iFly.com for insightful tips and advice. Read on!

Getting to Know CWL Airport

Discover Cardiff Airport, your portal to Wales, featuring the unique distinction of being the only airport in Wales offering international flights. Our concise guide equips you with essential information, from flight updates and terminal guides to the best dining and shopping spots. Whether it's parking advice or navigating airline terminals, we simplify your travel. Dive into our guide for a seamless journey at CWL.

Explore more about global airports with iFly's Comprehensive Airport Guide.

CWL has one terminal building with three levels. The terminal is divided into two sections: the Departures Lounge and the Arrivals Hall. There are 16 gates in total, with 10 gates located in the Departures Lounge and 6 gates in the Arrivals Hall.

The Departures Lounge is where you'll find check-in desks, security, and the majority of the airport's shops, restaurants, and services. The gates are located on the ground floor, with boarding gates 1-6 located to the left of security and gates 7-10 located to the right of security.

The Arrivals Hall is located on the ground floor and is where you'll find baggage claim, customs, and immigration. The gates for arriving flights are located on the first floor, with gates 11-16 located to the right of the escalators.

CWL Airport is a hub for several airlines, including TUI Airways, Ryanair, and KLM. TUI Airways and Ryanair primarily use gates 1-6, while KLM uses gates 7-10. However, gate assignments can vary depending on the airline and flight.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

The airport has only one terminal, making it easy for travelers to navigate and transfer between flights. The terminal is conveniently located near the car park, train station, and bus stop, making it easily accessible by public transportation. Travelers can also walk to and from the terminal, as it is a short distance from the car park and train station. The airport does not offer shuttle bus services to transfer between terminals because there is only one terminal. Overall, getting between terminals at Cardiff Airport is a breeze due to its small size and convenient location.

iFly Tip: Make traveling with loved ones easier by using tips from our gate pass guide.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At the airport, there are designated areas for picking up and dropping off passengers. The drop-off zone is located in front of the terminal building, while the pick-up zone is located in the short-stay car park. It is important to note that curbside parking is not allowed, and vehicles must not be left unattended in these areas.

If you need to wait for your arriving passengers, there is a cell-phone waiting area available. This area is located just a short distance from the terminal building and allows drivers to park their vehicles for free for up to 30 minutes while waiting for their passengers to arrive. This is a convenient option for those who do not want to pay for parking or circle around the airport while waiting for their passengers.

Parking Facilities & Options

If you're flying out of Cardiff Airport, you'll have several parking options to choose from. The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options, with both on-site and off-site parking available.

The on-site parking options include the Meet & Greet service, which allows you to drop off your car right outside the terminal, as well as the Long Stay and Short Stay car parks. The Long Stay car park is situated a short distance from the terminal, while the Short Stay car park is located just a few minutes' walk away.

If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-site parking is available at several nearby locations. These off-airport car parks offer shuttle services to and from the terminal, making them a convenient and cost-effective choice for travelers.

For those who need to wait for arriving passengers, there is a cell phone waiting area located near the airport entrance. This area allows you to wait in your car until your party has arrived and is ready to be picked up.

Handicapped parking is available in all of the on-site car parks, with designated spaces located near the terminal entrance. If you require assistance getting to or from your car, the airport offers a Meet & Greet service that can provide additional support.

Transportation Options

Cardiff Airport (CWL) offers a variety of transportation options to get you to your final destination:

  • Car Rentals: Cardiff Airport provides several car rental facilities, including Avis, Europcar, and Hertz. These providers offer a range of vehicles to suit your needs, whether you're traveling alone or with a group. It is advisable to book your rental car in advance, especially during peak travel times, to ensure availability.
  • Taxis: Taxis are available with drop-off areas located outside the terminal building. The fare for a taxi ride from the airport to Cardiff city center is approximately £30. It's recommended to book a taxi ahead of time during off-peak hours to avoid delays.
  • Ride-Share Services: Services like Uber and Lyft are available at the airport. Pickup areas for these services are located outside the terminal building. Be sure to check for any restrictions regarding luggage and passenger capacity.
  • Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles are a convenient option for those traveling to nearby hotels or other destinations. These shuttles typically have designated pickup areas outside the terminal building, and fares vary depending on the destination. Booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy periods.
  • Public Transportation: Public transportation is available from the airport. The T9 bus service runs every 20 minutes and provides direct transportation to Cardiff city center. The fare for this service is £5. Tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver or online. Additionally, there are train services available from Rhoose Cardiff International Airport railway station, which is a short shuttle bus ride from the terminal. Trains run to Cardiff Central Station and other destinations.

Airport Hotels

Whether you're seeking a luxurious 4-star stay, a charming countryside inn, or beachfront lodgings, we've got you covered. From the Celtic International Hotel, located less than a mile from the airport, to the tranquil retreat offered by the Fox and Hounds Llancarfan, there are options to suit every traveler's needs. For those seeking a home away from home, the Beautiful 3 bedroom cottage in Vale of Glamorgan and Haven House Rooms, Barry offer well-equipped accommodations with kitchen amenities. Meanwhile, the Vale Park Hotel and The Mount Rooms are perfect for travelers looking to explore local attractions. Discover the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and a taste of Welsh hospitality with our comprehensive list of CWL Airport Hotels.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

Cardiff Airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options for travelers. If you're looking for a quick bite before your flight, head to The Beer House, located in the departure lounge, for a selection of sandwiches, salads, and light bites. For a sit-down meal, Caffè Ritazza offers a range of hot and cold meals, including breakfast options, and is located in both the departure and arrivals areas.

If you're in the mood for some retail therapy, WHSmith is a great option for books, magazines, and snacks. For duty-free shopping, World Duty Free offers a range of products, including cosmetics, fragrances, and alcohol. If you're looking for Welsh souvenirs, head to A Taste of Wales, located in the departure lounge, for gifts such as Welsh cakes, preserves, and whiskey.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at CWL can be found using iFly's interactive map.

Passenger Services

  • Free Wi-Fi: CWL Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
  • Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found office is located at the information desk in the main terminal building.
  • Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, CWL Airport features a designated children's play area near the departure gates, equipped with toys and games.
  • Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
  • ATM: ATMs are available throughout the airport, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
  • First Aid Room: In case of a medical emergency, a first aid room is located in the main terminal building. Airport staff are also available to assist with arranging transportation to a nearby hospital if needed.
  • Airport Lounges: CWL Airport features the Executive Lounge, accessible to all passengers for a fee or through membership programs. The lounge offers amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, beverages, snacks, and a comfortable seating area to relax before your flight. Additionally, the lounge provides a quiet space with workstations and a full bar.

Flight Status Info

As air travel has become an integral part of modern-day life, it is crucial for travelers to stay updated on their flight status. At Cardiff Airport, passengers can easily get real-time information about their flight's departure, delays, and gate information through various means.

One of the most convenient ways to check flight status is by using the in-airport Flight Information Display System (FIDS), which provides up-to-date information about all departing flights. Passengers can easily locate the FIDS screens throughout the airport and check their flight status by entering their flight number or destination.

Moreover, most airlines offer mobile phone apps that allow passengers to receive alerts about departure delays, cancellations, or gate changes. Passengers can download their airline's app and enable push notifications, text, or email alerts to stay informed about their flight status.

Passengers can also check the status of their flight departure at Cardiff Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Cardiff Airport (CWL) is located approximately 12 miles from the city center of Cardiff, United Kingdom.
  • Terminals: The airport features a single terminal that serves both domestic and international flights.
  • Airlines Served: Major airlines operating at CWL include Flybe, Ryanair, and TUI Airways. For a full list of airlines, visit the CWL Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Cardiff Airport handles approximately 8,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 80 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from CWL are Amsterdam, Dublin, Alicante, Palma de Mallorca, and Malaga.
  • Hub Status: Cardiff Airport serves as a hub for TUI Airways and is a base for Ryanair and Flybe.

Airport History

Cardiff Airport, located in the Vale of Glamorgan, Wales, has a rich history that dates back to the early 1940s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1940: The airport was originally built as a wartime satellite aerodrome for RAF Llandow.
  • 1954: The airport was officially opened for civil use and became known as Rhoose Airport.
  • 1965: The runway was extended to accommodate larger aircraft.
  • 1995: The airport was privatized and sold to TBI plc.
  • 2000: A new terminal building was opened, doubling the airport's capacity.
  • 2007: The Welsh government purchased the airport from TBI plc.
  • 2013: The airport was rebranded as CWL.
  • 2015: Qatar Airways launched daily flights to Doha, marking the airport's first long-haul route.
  • 2019: The airport announced a £4 million investment to improve the terminal building and passenger experience.

Today, CWL Airport serves over 1.5 million passengers annually and offers flights to over 50 destinations worldwide.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Cardiff Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Cardiff Airport Q&A

The airport has one terminal building with three levels.
The check-in desks are located in the Departures Lounge.
Yes, the drop-off zone is located in front of the terminal building, and the pick-up zone is in the short-stay car park.
The airport offers on-site options like Meet & Greet, Long Stay, and Short Stay car parks, as well as off-site parking with shuttle services.
Transportation options include car rentals, taxis, ride-share services, airport shuttles, and public transportation like the T9 bus service and train services from Rhoose Cardiff International Airport railway station.
Yes, there are several nearby hotels, including the Celtic International Hotel, Fox and Hounds Llancarfan, and Vale Park Hotel.
The airport offers dining options like The Beer House and Caffè Ritazza, and shopping options like WHSmith and World Duty Free.
Yes, CWL Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal.
You can check flight status using the in-airport Flight Information Display System (FIDS), airline mobile apps, or by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com.
The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. It is recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.