Newcastle Airport boosts North East economy by £1bn
Newcastle Airport generates more than £1bn annually for the North East economy and supports over 17,000 jobs, a new report reveals.
The study, developed in partnership with leading infrastructure consultancy Arup, highlights the Airport’s importance as a vital gateway to the region and a driving force for economic growth, investment, tourism and employment.
An assessment of the Airport’s 2023 operations found:
• More than £1bn in Gross Value Added (GVA) contributed to the economy.
• 3,200 employed on the Airport site.
• Over 17,000 jobs supported through the Airport’s supply chain.
• Partnerships with almost 270 suppliers, with more than half operating locally, which generated £200m for the economy and supported 3,500 jobs.
• Almost 500,000 overseas visitors spent more than £360m in the region.
• Around 610,000 domestic and international business trips contributed £278m to the economy and supported around 2,200 jobs.
The report follows a period of strong growth for the Airport, which was recognised as Best in the World at the Routes World Conference 2024.
With 17 airline partners, the Airport offers direct flights to over 80 destinations and connections to more than 300 onward locations worldwide.
In 2024, it welcomed 5.2 million passengers and achieved a record-breaking year by handling over 6,000 tonnes of cargo.
Its expanding cargo operations continue to boost trade and investment in the region, providing local businesses with direct access to key global markets.
Looking ahead to 2040, the report projects that the Airport could contribute almost £2bn in GVA annually and support around 32,330 jobs.
Beyond its economic impact, the study also highlights the Airport’s important role in higher education.
In 2023, it helped attract 18,700 international students to the North East, who collectively contributed £1.79bn to the economy.
The business is also committed to nurturing young talent through its long-standing partnership with Newcastle College’s Aviation Academy.
Each year, students spend time at the Airport gaining valuable hands-on experience across key departments such as security and passenger services as part of the Academy’s Ambassador Programme.
A significant number of graduates go on to secure employment at the Airport or with its business partners after completing their studies.
Nick Jones, Chief Executive at Newcastle Airport, said: “This report reaffirms Newcastle Airport’s position as a major economic asset for the North East.
“Generating more than £1bn annually and supporting more than 17,000 jobs demonstrates the key role we play in driving economic growth and making the region a prime destination for international business and investment.
“The findings also showcase the far-reaching impact of our operations, from bringing millions of visitors to the region each year who boost the local economy to strengthening the education sector by attracting students from around the world.
"Looking ahead, we are committed to building on these achievements and working with our partners to ensure the North East sustains a thriving economy and is well-positioned to embrace even more trade and investment opportunities.”