Newcastle Airport has been awarded Airport of the Year at the 2026 Australian Aviation Awards, following the completion of its international terminal expansion and network growth over the past 12 months. Selected from a national field of finalists including Melbourne, Launceston, Mackay, and Port Hedland International airports, the regional facility was recognised for its operational transition into an international gateway, terminal design and sustainability performance.
The award submission highlighted the airport’s route expansion across domestic and international destinations, alongside sustainability measures including carbon reduction programs and Green Star certification. The announcement accompanied the broader Australian Aviation Summit, where members of the airport’s executive team participated in industry panels covering aviation risk, securit, and sustainable operations.
Chair of Newcastle Airport, Samantha Martin-Williams noted that the award reflects the collective contribution of operational staff, airline partners, and community stakeholders.
“This award is a nod to our people, our airline partners, governments, stakeholders and the community who have supported our ambition to become the airport the region deserves,” Samantha said.
“We are incredibly proud to represent the Hunter on the national stage and congratulate our fellow finalists, who continue to make an important contribution to Australia’s aviation industry.”
Chief Executive Officer of Newcastle Airport, Linc Horton stated that executing a major infrastructure expansion while maintaining daily flights required broad operational coordination across the precinct.
“Over the past year we have successfully delivered our international terminal, introduced key domestic and international routes for our region and continued building the partnerships that are helping unlock tourism, trade, investment and jobs for the Hunter,” Linc said.
“Delivering a major airport expansion while maintaining day-to-day operations required an extraordinary effort across every part of the airport and this award belongs to every person across Newcastle Airport and the region who has contributed to making our airport one of the very best in Australia. It’s particularly pleasing that this recognition follows a day where our executive team was invited to contribute to national discussions on the future of aviation. Newcastle Airport is delivering outstanding outcomes for our region and helping shape the future of Australia’s aviation industry.”
Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley added that the international terminal development establishes critical infrastructure to support long-term regional trade and tourism growth.
“In one extraordinary year, Newcastle Airport has opened its international terminal, expanded its network and transformed the way our region connects with Australia and the world,” Yasmin said.
“This is far more than a terminal and a runway. It is the Hunter’s gateway to new jobs, more visitors, greater investment and opportunities that once seemed out of reach. The Hunter is ambitious, outward-looking and ready to take on the world – and Newcastle Airport embodies that spirit. This award belongs to the brilliant team who took a bold vision for our region and made it real. The entire Hunter should be immensely proud.”
IMAGE | Newcastle Airport named Australia’s Airport of the Year at 2026 Australian Aviation Awards
