Airport unveils masterplan to unlock growth

An airport is ready for take-off with a “bold and ambitious” vision.

Newcastle International Airport has released its latest masterplan, revealing plans to contribute £1.9 billion to the regional economy and welcome nine million passengers a year by 2040. 

The long-term strategy outlines major growth in infrastructure, jobs and sustainability, as the airport continues its role as a key gateway for global connectivity.

By 2040, it is expected that on-site employment at the airport will rise from 3200 to 5000, with an additional 15,000 jobs created across its supply chain. 

Meanwhile, passenger facilities will be enhanced this year with a three-storey terminal extension, additional food and drink outlets, extra seating and expanded baggage reclaim areas.

A pier extension will also enable 20 new aircraft stands, reducing the need for remote bus transfers, while future runway improvements will support more long-haul destinations.

A proposed 750,000sq ft cargo facility called AirLink is also in the pipeline, with the potential to create 1400 jobs and deliver £165 million annually to the economy.

Nick Jones, chief executive at Newcastle Airport, which last year was crowned best in the world at the World Routes Conference, in Bahrain, said: “This masterplan sets out our bold and ambitious vision for 2040 and paves the way for the future of Newcastle Airport and the North East region. 

“In the coming months, we will be consulting on the masterplan as widely as possible, inviting feedback from members of the public, local businesses and stakeholders from across the region to ensure everyone has an opportunity to help shape the future of the airport.” 

The masterplan aligns with the airport’s target to reach net-zero carbon status by 2035, including projects such as solar farm expansion, on-site wind turbines, improved recycling, electric vehicle investment and rewilding efforts.

Consultation is now open on the plan, which the airport says will strengthen the region’s economic resilience and connectivity in the decades to come.

Nick added: “Through significant investment in infrastructure, expanding our route network and progressing with our net-zero ambitions, we are laying the foundations for sustainable growth, while enhancing our economic contribution to the region.” 

To view the airport’s masterplan and complete the online survey, visit www.newcastleairport.com/masterplan2040.

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