Newcastle Airport has been named Major Airport of the Year 2018 by Australia’s peak airport body, the Australian Airports Association (AAA).
Major Airport of the Year is awarded annually to an airport with over 500,000 annual passengers that displays excellence across all aspects of airport operations and development.
Newcastle Airport CEO, Dr Peter Cock accepted the award last week at the National Airport Industry Awards in Brisbane. Peter said winning the highly competitive award is an achievement for the entire Greater Hunter Region.
“We thank the region and airport community for its continued support. This achievement is a result of collaboration across so many sectors, including our RAAF neighbours, industry and tourism partners and loyal travellers who go smarter by starting their journey from Newcastle Airport,” Peter said.
AAA CEO, Caroline Wilkie commended Newcastle Airport on its commitment to the Hunter region and the local visitor economy, including the commencement of international services from next week.
“Newcastle Airport’s new international services are fantastic news for the local visitor economy. There have been many years of work behind the introduction of these services and the team has continued advocacy for their region is to be commended. They are a true partner of their community and tourism industry and a most worthy winner of this award,” Caroline said.
“This year has seen a number of significant milestones for our region, including the release of our 20-year Master Plan for expansion to meet community growth, commencement of a direct service to Adelaide and $11.7 million in NSW Government funding to create a world-leading aerospace precinct adjacent to Newcastle Airport,” Peter said.
“A successful airport is vital to a bright future for the region and community in which it serves, and we greatly acknowledge the vision of our community shareholders, City of Newcastle and Port Stephens Council, in helping deliver the Airport the region deserves.”
The award marks the second time Newcastle Airport has been named Major Airport of the Year, gaining the title previously in 2011 for its commitment to community engagement. Newcastle Airport is the only New South Wales airport to win the award in seven years.
IMAGE | From left to right, Newcastle Airport Chairman Peter Gesling, Newcastle Airport CEO Dr Peter Cock, and AAA National Chairman Guy Thompson.
