The boss of the largest airline operating from Leeds-Bradford International Airport has criticised the £28 million expansion plans given the go-ahead this week by Leeds councillors.

Philip Meeson, chief executive of Jet2.com, accused LBIA’s owners Bridgepoint of planning the terminal extension mainly to boost shopping facilities in order to recoup the £140 million it paid for the airport.

Mr Meeson does not believe the extension should go ahead now as it could push up costs for his company and other tenants.

He said: “Bridgepoint bought the airport at the top of the market. They spent £140 million to buy it and so will be looking for ways to get that money back.

“The reason LBIA wants to extend the terminal is to create better shopping facilities as a cash generator.

“All airports are seeing a reduction in passenger numbers and I would question whether we need this extension now.

“The ring road is already crowded and there are not enough bus services to and from the airport. We need to have many more buses from all over the place and car parking charges should be kept down.”

Mr Meeson also criticised airport chiefs for a lack of communication over the plans.

Mr Meeson said he “did not recall” being consulted over the plans and that LBIA had been “pressurising” tenants about potential higher charges which, if imposed, could affect Jet2.com’s cut price fares.

Airport chiefs say the two-storey extension of the terminal building will boost passenger numbers and create 2,000 jobs.

The plan is to create a new check-in area and security facilities as well as a new departure lounge and shops on the first floor.

Tony Hallwood, LBIA’s commercial and aviation director, said he was surprised by Mr Meeson’s comments and said that airlines were among those who had been canvassed.

He said: “The expansion is designed to ensure LBIA can compete and become the best regional airport in the UK and boost the local economy.”

The green light for LBIA’s expansion was welcomed by Harold Robinson, who took over as president of Bradford’s chamber of commerce this week.

He said: “We couldn’t believe it when Leeds planners deferred their decision and very much welcome the fact that they have now approved the plans. A major conurbation such as Leeds and Bradford needs a proper airport.”

Mr Robinson said the airport should focus on restoring services to London Heathrow.