Passengers flying from Leeds Bradford Airport can now expect far fewer signal blackspots after a major mobile connectivity upgrade brought reliable 4G coverage from all UK network operators across key parts of the terminal.
In a move set to make life easier for holidaymakers ahead of the busy summer getaway season, Leeds Bradford Airport has partnered with connectivity specialists Freshwave to roll out improved indoor mobile coverage across its refurbished terminal and newly opened extension.
The upgrade means passengers can now use travel apps, browse online, check flight details and stay in touch with family and friends more easily – no matter which UK mobile provider they use.
It is also expected to improve communication for airport staff, helping support smoother day-to-day operations behind the scenes in one of Yorkshire’s busiest travel hubs.
Freshwave has already delivered coverage across 85,000 sq ft of the airport’s new terminal extension, spanning three floors as part of the first phase of Leeds Bradford Airport’s long-running regeneration programme.
That includes major passenger areas such as baggage reclaim, new food and drink spaces and retail zones including World Duty Free.
The next stage will see the technology expanded across a further 44,000 sq ft, including the airport’s new security area – ensuring even more passengers benefit from strong, reliable signal inside the terminal.
Airport bosses say the upgrade has come at a crucial time, with Leeds Bradford preparing for increasing passenger demand in the years ahead.
Adrian Rollins, Head of Information Systems at Leeds Bradford Airport, said: “We’re pleased to have worked with Freshwave to bring our passengers and staff reliable mobile coverage ahead of the busy summer period.
“With passenger numbers expected to reach seven million by 2030, this upgrade is a vital part of future-proofing our airport and getting the most out of digital systems that depend on mobile.
“Freshwave have been a trusted partner, expertly delivering the mobile system within a live, fully operational airport environment.”
The airport – Yorkshire’s main airport serving more than 80 destinations – is currently undergoing a major multi-million-pound transformation designed to modernise facilities and improve the overall passenger experience.
The wider regeneration project includes new retail and dining areas, upgraded passport control, more security lanes and improvements to immigration facilities.
At the heart of the scheme is the airport’s three-storey X25 extension, which opened in June 2025, alongside a wider refurbishment of the existing terminal.
Once complete, the project will increase overall floor space by 38% and boost seating capacity by 83%.
The regeneration programme is due to be completed by the end of 2027.
Freshwave says the airport has chosen an “all-operator neutral host solution”, meaning the infrastructure supports all major UK mobile networks rather than relying on one provider.
Brendan Hourihane, Senior Director at Freshwave, said: “We’re proud to play a small part in Leeds Bradford Airport’s future vision by delivering mobile coverage to its regenerated terminal.
“By investing in an all-operator neutral host solution, Leeds Bradford Airport have put the needs of their passengers and staff first, assuring signal no matter which network they use.
“Up to 80% of mobile data traffic occurs indoors; Omni Network is an energy and cost-efficient solution that gives everyone the coverage they need with an approach that can easily be replicated by other regional airports.”
