The milestone comes as the airport is named the UK’s second fastest-growing by the Civil Aviation Authority, with passenger numbers up 24 per cent in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period last year.
CEO Jon Bridge said: “Welcoming more than one million passengers is a major milestone for Cardiff Airport and a clear sign of the growing demand for flights from Wales.
“To be recognised by the Civil Aviation Authority as the second fastest-growing airport in the UK is a fantastic achievement and reflects the hard work of our colleagues and partners, as well as the confidence passengers and airlines continue to place in Cardiff.
“We are focused on building on this momentum, expanding connectivity and delivering long-term benefits for Wales and the wider economy.”
The airport has seen a 14 per cent rise in passengers compared with the 2024/25 financial year.
Recent highlights include welcoming new airline partner WestJet, TUI basing a fourth aircraft at the airport this summer, and introducing routes to Hurghada, Faro, Fuerteventura, Salzburg, Toronto, Turin, and Kittilä.
The airport also handled more than 19,000 international rugby fans during major tournaments.
Ryanair recorded its busiest-ever summer at Cardiff Airport.
The airport supports thousands of jobs and contributes more than £200 million each year to the Welsh economy.
Future plans include expanding cargo operations, increasing freight capacity, and attracting new commercial partnerships to support growth and diversify revenue.
