RECORD breaking passenger numbers have helped Southampton Airport to double its operating profit.

The booming airport saw profits jump from £3m in 2003 to £6m this year in financial results of owners British Airport Authority for the year ending March 31.

Revenues from airport charges, retail and property income and fuel sales increased 46.2 per cent to £19m.

Southampton Airport's historic year saw passenger numbers increase by 72.8 per cent to 1.4 million.

But today airport watchdog group member Mary Finch claimed the airport was booming at the expense of nearby residents.

She said: "This airport should never have been expanded at the rate it has, especially as it is so close to a residential area.

"Bitterne Park Residents' Association met last week and members are very angry at the rate of expansion at the airport."

Mrs Finch said they would have to wait and see if the noise trials would make any difference.

She said: "Aircraft are now going where they have never been before and people are suddenly realising they have an airport close to them."

The airport's soaraway growth comes at a time when a six-month trial aimed at clipping the wings of noisy aircraft is under way.

Alternative take-off and landing procedures have been introduced in a bid to see if there is a reduction in noise levels.

As well as a strong financial performance, Southampton Airport has demonstrated its importance to the region's economy by becoming one of the major employers, with more than 1,000 people working on site.

Managing director David Cumming said: "This has been the busiest year on record in Southampton Airport's 94-year history and I would like to thank everyone who has played a part in its success. I am delighted that the Airport is supporting more than 1,000 jobs and making a significant contribution to the local economy.

"Our successful financial performance across all sectors of the business has led to strong profit growth for Southampton Airport. This will enable us to continue to invest in the future of the airport.

"Looking ahead to the forthcoming financial year, we will be spending over £5m on passenger facilities to ensure Southampton remains one of Europe's leading regional airports."