Cornwall Airport Newquay to Upgrade Radar System for Safety and Reliability

Cornwall Airport Newquay has revealed plans to upgrade its radar system as part of a wider modernisation of its airfield infrastructure. The announcement was made on Monday 1st December 2025 and marks a significant step in improving the safety and reliability of flights in and out of Cornwall.

A Major Upgrade for Cornwall’s Airspace

The current radar will be replaced with a modern, high-performance system supplied by UK manufacturer Easat Radar Systems Ltd. The upgrade is part-fund funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Funding via the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme and forms a key part of the airport’s Development Strategy.

The new radar is designed to support air traffic controllers in managing Cornwall’s busy and diverse airspace, while also helping the region’s growing role in aerospace, defence and next-generation aviation technologies.

Cllr Leigh Frost, leader of Cornwall Council, said:
“The airport is at the heart of Cornwall’s economy. It provides essential global links for business and our residents, and plays a key role in attracting investment into the region.

The new radar system is part of a wider programme of infrastructure modernisation, supporting safe and reliable operations for commercial, business and general aviation, military activity, lifeline services and Spaceport Cornwall.

This is exactly the sort of project the Shared Prosperity Funding is designed for, helping to unlock economic growth and create jobs, while improving safety and reliability.”

📷Similar System during FAT in Stoke

Safety at the Centre

Dean McAllister, Senior Airfield Engineer at Cornwall Airport Newquay, said the upgrade reinforces the airport’s commitment to operating at the highest standards.

“Safety is at the centre of everything we do at Cornwall Airport Newquay. This project is not just about upgrading technology. It ensures the airport continues to operate to the highest standards as Cornwall’s primary air gateway.

Investing in a new Easat radar system is a long-term commitment to protecting the skies over Cornwall and the communities we serve. It strengthens the resilience of every flight that brings visitors to our county, supports local businesses, connects families and underpins vital services such as Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust and HM Coastguard.”

Delivered by a UK Manufacturer

Matthew Jackson, Managing Director at Easat Radar Systems, said the company looked forward to working with the airport team.

“I would like to thank Cornwall Airport Newquay for placing their trust in Easat. We are excited to begin this partnership and look forward to working closely with the team to deliver a highly successful project.
The systems we will be supplying are engineered for improved performance, exceptional detection and reliable operation even in challenging environments. They will equip the airport with a modern, future-ready surveillance capability that supports continued growth and operational excellence.”

📷Antenna undergoing testing at Easat facilities in Stoke

Supporting Cornwall’s Future

The radar upgrade is part of a broader modernisation programme backed by the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme, launched in April 2022 and funded with £186 million from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The programme runs until March 2026 and focuses on driving economic growth, creating jobs and strengthening communities.

Cornwall Airport Newquay, which is recognised for its refurbished terminal, next-generation security screening and award-winning operations, will continue to offer a wide range of connections through its eight airline partners. Its flight network can be explored at the airport’s official site at cornwallairportnewquay.com/flights.

The airport is home to one of the UK’s longest runways, supports a mix of commercial, business and general aviation, and plays a key role in lifeline services including Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust and HM Coastguard. It also hosts Spaceport Cornwall, the UK’s first licensed spaceport.

Cornwall Airport Newquay describes its vision as expanding sustainable connectivity and unlocking economic opportunity for Cornwall’s communities, visitors and industries.

📷Artist Impression