Summer Passenger Boom at Cornwall Airport Newquay Sets Stage for Busy Autumn

160,000 Passengers Hit Cornwall Airport Newquay Over Summer

As the summer holidays draw to a close, Cornwall Airport Newquay has revealed its summer 2024 passenger numbers – with around 160,000 people passing through the airport over the last three months. This makes it one of the busiest summers on record for the airport, which has become a vital hub for travellers heading to and from Cornwall. From family holidays to weekend getaways, Cornwall has been a hotspot of activity this season.

With 100% of baggage handling done by the airport’s in-house team, they’ve dealt with around 66,000 suitcases this summer. Unlike many other airports, Cornwall Airport Newquay keeps its operations local, ensuring a seamless and personal travel experience.

European Destinations Soar

This summer saw significant growth in international travel from Cornwall, particularly to European destinations. Flights to Alicante proved to be a top pick, with a 205% increase in passengers compared to last year. Regular services to London, operated by Eastern Airways and Ryanair, remained popular, offering easy connections to the capital.

Flights to Zurich and Copenhagen were also on offer, providing new travel options for passengers looking to explore beyond the usual destinations. Football fans were well catered for too, with direct flights to Dusseldorf via Eurowings, helping them get to UEFA Euros 2024 matches.

Closer to home, routes to Dublin and Belfast were busy with Aer Lingus services, while Skybus flights to the Isles of Scilly remained a popular choice for those wanting a quick getaway.

A brand-new route to Guernsey with Aurigny Airlines was a summer highlight, further expanding Cornwall Airport Newquay’s growing list of travel options.

Terminal Expansions and New Look

Passengers passing through the terminal may have noticed some big changes this summer. A major upgrade to the departure lounge added 62 square metres of space to the café and retail areas, making it easier to relax before catching a flight. This expansion is part of Cornwall Airport Newquay’s ongoing commitment to improving passenger experience.

On top of that, the airport unveiled a refreshed brand identity, bringing a modern and vibrant feel to the facility that matches the excitement of the journeys it helps create.

Supporting Cornwall’s Best Events

Cornwall Airport Newquay wasn’t just about flying people in and out this summer; it was also a key player in supporting some of Cornwall’s biggest events. The airport sponsored the Shetland Pony Grand National at the Royal Cornwall Show and was involved in Arts on the Beach at Watergate Bay.

One of the biggest highlights of the season was seeing local surf star Lukas Skinner secure wins at Boardmasters in both the Junior Open and BYD Pro Men’s Division, with the airport cheering him on all the way.

In another initiative, Cornwall Airport Newquay hosted a press trip in collaboration with top Cornish brands like the Headland Hotel and Rick Stein’s. This was part of an effort to showcase the best of Cornwall to Swiss journalists, leaving them with lasting memories of the county’s charm.

Looking Ahead to Autumn Travel

With summer behind us, the airport’s focus is now shifting to autumn travel. Flights to Dublin with Aer Lingus will continue until the end of October, before switching to Ryanair for year-round service. Passengers can also look forward to continued flights to London Gatwick and London Stansted, as well as year-round services to Alicante, Malaga, Edinburgh, and Manchester.

For those looking for a sunny escape before the end of the year, flights to Faro with Ryanair will be available until November, offering one last chance for a warm getaway.

Terminal Upgrades and New Website Coming Soon

As part of ongoing improvements, Cornwall Airport Newquay is currently working on upgrades that will enable it to process 500 passengers per hour, improving travel efficiency.

Additionally, the airport is set to launch a new website this autumn, making it easier for passengers to book flights, check services, and plan their trips.

As Cornwall Airport Newquay reflects on a record-breaking summer, it’s clear that the future looks bright, with more travel opportunities, upgraded facilities, and the promise of smoother journeys ahead.

For further updates and flight information, visit Cornwall Airport Newquay.