Newcastle Airport Set for Record-Breaking Year with Major Expansion

Introduction: A Pivotal Year for Newcastle Airport

Newcastle Airport is entering a transformative period as it prepares to welcome an unprecedented number of travellers in 2026. 2026 is set to be the busiest year in Newcastle Airport’s history, with the airport preparing to welcome a record six million passengers due to investment from airline partners, including the launch of easyJet’s new base in March. This milestone represents a significant leap for the North East’s primary aviation gateway and underscores the region’s growing importance as a travel hub. The airport’s expansion comes at a crucial time for regional connectivity, offering enhanced travel options for both leisure and business passengers.

EasyJet Base and New Route Network

The centrepiece of Newcastle Airport’s growth strategy is the establishment of easyJet’s new operational base. easyJet’s network expansion follows the news the airline will open a new three-aircraft base at Newcastle Airport in spring 2026, with the addition of three aircraft enabling the airline to more than double the number of destinations on its network from Newcastle. New services are set to take off from next summer to Antalya and Dalaman in Turkey, Greek Islands Rhodes and Corfu, Algarve gateway Faro in Portugal, as well as Malta, Prague, the Spanish city of Reus and an exclusive route connecting Newcastle to Nice, opening up the south of France for holidaymakers, with direct connections to North Africa including services to the popular Egyptian resort of Sharm-El-Sheikh and Enfidha in Tunisia.

Infrastructure Improvements and Passenger Experience

Newcastle Airport has unveiled a new Waiting Zone for taxis and the public, with the facility at Callerton Parkway, next to Callerton Metro station, providing a safe area for vehicles to wait before picking up passengers and offering up to 90 minutes free parking for taxis, minibuses and public vehicles. From 6 January, the multi-award winning Airport will further invest in the site and introduce a complimentary electric shuttle bus service, which will initially run every 30 minutes and transport passengers between the waiting zone and the terminal front entrance. Newcastle Airport is investing almost £60 million over 2025 and 2026 to upgrade and expand its facilities, including extending the terminal to create a larger departure lounge and international baggage hall.

Recognition and Strategic Partnerships

The airport’s recent success has not gone unnoticed by the aviation industry. Newcastle Airport added another top industry award to its trophy cabinet after being crowned ‘Star UK Airport’ at the Travel Bulletin Star Awards for the third consecutive year, in addition to receiving the award for the Best Airport in Europe in the 2 to 5 million passenger category at the prestigious Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards. Additionally, Spanish state operator AENA has acquired a 49% stake in Newcastle Airport, with this £270 million move signalling AENA’s intention to establish a robust network of British airports.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Regional Aviation

Newcastle Airport’s record-breaking year ahead represents more than just passenger numbers—it signifies the vital role regional airports play in connecting communities to the world. With substantial infrastructure investment, expanded route networks, and strategic partnerships, the airport is well-positioned to serve the North East’s growing travel demands while maintaining its commitment to sustainability and passenger experience. As 2026 unfolds, Newcastle Airport stands as a testament to the potential of regional aviation hubs to drive economic growth and enhance connectivity for millions of travellers.