Summary
Cornwall Airport Newquay, one of the UK’s fastest-growing regional airports, is entering an exciting new chapter as it prepares for upgraded facilities and enhanced services in early 2025. With a remarkable year behind it, the airport is poised to continue serving as a vital gateway for travelers and aviation enthusiasts alike.
A Year of Progress
In 2024, Cornwall Airport Newquay handled over 407,000 passengers and 5,214 commercial flights, alongside an impressive 19,035 airport movements. As a “lifeline airport,” it is home to the Cornwall Air Ambulance and HM Coastguard UK, as well as hosting private and charter airline operations.
Recent improvements include:
- Lightning-fast Wi-Fi: Installed by Wildanet, ensuring passengers can stay connected effortlessly.
- Expanded Ground Transportation: A larger hire car service and a new taxi company headquarters on-site.
- Recognition for Excellence: Awards for health, safety, and accessibility, including the top prize in the Small Airport category at the AirportsUK Health & Safety Awards.
With a refreshed brand identity and website, Cornwall Airport Newquay is ready to meet growing passenger demand and evolving travel trends. The 2024 WTM Global Travel Report forecasts a 10% growth in short-haul leisure travel, reinforcing the importance of regional airports like Newquay. Destinations such as Malaga, Dublin, Aberdeen, and London remain key connections.
What’s New for 2025?
Upgrades set to debut in early 2025 include:
- A modernized terminal with streamlined check-in and security processing.
- An enhanced departure lounge with a new café and expanded retail options.
These changes aim to elevate the travel experience, offering greater convenience and comfort for passengers. The upgrades also position the airport as a hub for the growing “bleisure” travel market—business trips combined with leisure stays—while continuing to showcase Cornwall’s unique appeal.
Airlines and Aircraft at Cornwall Airport Newquay
Aviation enthusiasts visiting Cornwall Airport Newquay can look forward to seeing a variety of aircraft types and airlines. The airport offers direct flights to domestic and European destinations, with carriers such as Ryanair, Eastern Airways, Aer Lingus and Loganair operating here. Seasonal flights often feature aircraft like the Airbus A320 family, Boeing 737s, and smaller regional jets, and airlines like Edelweiss, Eurowings and easyJet.
The airport is also home to Spaceport Cornwall, the UK’s first licensed spaceport, which offers opportunities for Future Flight Innovation—a unique aspect for those interested in cutting-edge aviation technology.
Plane Spotting at Cornwall Airport Newquay
For aviation enthusiasts, Cornwall Airport Newquay offers fantastic opportunities for plane spotting. Two popular locations include:
- The West Car Park – Situated next to the passenger terminal, this spot provides a clear view of aircraft taxiing, parking, and taking off.
- The Layby off the A3059 – Located near the end of Runway 30, this spot offers excellent views of arriving and departing aircraft. It’s an ideal location for capturing close-up photos of planes as they land or take off.
With a steady flow of commercial flights, private jets, and emergency service aircraft, there’s always something exciting to see.
There’s also a company based at the airport which is involved in parting-out and scrapping older airliners, so there are often unusual airframes to spot.
A Bright Future for Cornwall Airport Newquay
As the airport celebrates 16 years since receiving its civil license from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in 2008, its progress and future plans highlight its importance to the region. From its role in supporting local communities to its innovations in aviation and connectivity, Cornwall Airport Newquay continues to soar as a hub for travel and discovery.
Whether you’re planning a trip, exploring Cornwall, or indulging your passion for aviation, Cornwall Airport Newquay promises an engaging experience for all. For more information, visit Cornwall Airport Newquay’s website and start planning your visit today.
Airport Spotting Guides UK & Ireland
Our latest guidebook, Airport Spotting Guides UK & Ireland (2nd Edition) details the best spotting locations at around 150 airports, airfields and military bases across the British Isles, including Cornwall Newquay Airport.
