Member Article

Transport Minister officially opens £14m Newcastle Airport departure lounge

Newcastle International Airport’s £14m redeveloped departure lounge has been officially opened by The Minister of State for Transport, Robert Goodwill MP.

With the addition of a range of new shops, cafes, restaurants and bar areas, the lounge has undergone a complete transformation in 2015.

The redevelopments on site include a new walkthrough World Duty Free store and new food and beverage outlets; The Cabin, Bar11 and Caffe Ritazza. The Xpress Podshop, a self-service shopping outlet has been added, while existing brands WHSmith, Boots, Travelex, Accessorize and Traveller have moved into new stores.

Aviation Minister Robert Goodwill, who also viewed the Airport’s winter resilience operation plans during his visit, said: “Newcastle Airport is a shining example of how our regional airports lead the way with their service and range of destinations.

“The new departure lounge underlines Newcastle Airport’s importance as an engine of growth for the North East and the Northern Powerhouse. We are committed to supporting regional airports in their ambitions, with £20m funding for new domestic and international routes across the UK.

“I’ve also had the chance to meet some of the winter resilience crews here and applaud their work in ensuring this important link is fully prepared for the coming months.”

David Laws, Chief Executive at Newcastle International Airport, said: “I am delighted the Minister has officially opened our new departure lounge. Our passengers’ journeys, whether business or pleasure, begin right here at the airport and it’s vital we give them the best possible experience.

“We have listened to their feedback and are confident the new development allows for a more informed choice on where to shop, eat, drink or simply relax before catching a flight.”