Exeter International Airport has announced that it will become smoke-free three months ahead of the government’s ban on smoking in public places.
Making the announcement yesterday on National No Smoking Day (March 14), the airport said that all areas of the terminal would be non-smoking from April 1, three months before the national ban comes into force on July 1.
Currently smokers are allowed to enjoy a pre-flight puff in a designated area near the air-side bar, but will no longer be allowed to do so in two weeks’ time.
“The airport recognises that a person, whether passenger, visitor or staff member, has the right to be protected from the harm of second hand smoke,” said Exeter International’s John Spooner.
“Our ruling will ensure that they can relax, travel, shop and work in a healthier and smoke-free environment.”
He said that the early ban was being imposed because of feedback from passengers and staff, and “before the airport gets into full swing with summer passengers”.
Airlines operating from Exeter include Flybe, Air Transat and Flyglobespan. Destinations on offer include Amsterdam, Dublin, Edinburgh, Malaga and Paris.
