Newcastle Airport: Cargo service expansion strengthens hub
The upgrade has been supported by Samson Aviation, the airportβs on-site business partner, which has invested in new equipment including a main deck loader.
This will allow the airport to handle larger and more specialised cargo.
Leon McQuaid, director of aviation development at Newcastle Airport, said: “We are delighted to further strengthen Newcastle Airportβs position as a leading cargo gateway with the addition of this new equipment.
“It significantly enhances our capability to handle a wider range of cargo and underlines our ability to support the growing number of businesses choosing the Airport for their import and export needs.
“Our continued investment in our cargo infrastructure demonstrates a clear commitment to growth and we continue to welcome conversations with any cargo or aviation related businesses looking to invest in the region.”
The airport imports and exports 4,000 tonnes of cargo, and the new equipment will help accommodate even larger volumes.
This includes cargo such as heavy machinery, aircraft components, and luxury vehicles.
Paula Ives, general manager at Samson Aviation, said: “The investment in the new equipment demonstrates Samson Aviationβs commitment to supporting Newcastle Airportβs growing cargo operations.
“It will create more opportunities for businesses in the North East, across the UK and internationally, to transport larger and more specialised cargo efficiently and connect with key markets around the world.”
The airport also supports global trade through its 24/7 operations and transport connectivity.
Emiratesβ daily service to Dubai can carry up to 21 tonnes of cargo, including automotive parts and pharmaceuticals.
From Dubai, goods can reach more than 130 destinations worldwide, with Shanghai, Melbourne, and Johannesburg among the most popular export markets.
The airportβs freight village offers a full range of processing facilities, enabling goods to be cleared quickly through customs for delivery across the UK and beyond.
Looking to the future, Newcastle Airportβs 2040 Masterplan includes further cargo expansion plans.
One of the key projects is AirLink, a proposed 750,000 sq ft cargo hub.
The development could create thousands of jobs and add up to Β£165 million a year to the regional economy.