Newcastle Airport has confirmed progress on its ambitious AirLink logistics development, a major project designed to expand air cargo operations in northeast England.
The planned facility will cover approximately 620,000 square feet on land located south of the airport’s runway.
AirLink is expected to include a dedicated cargo hub, providing space for cargo operators, freight forwarders and ground handling companies.
Currently, Newcastle Airport handles around 4,000 tonnes of cargo annually, but the new development aims to significantly expand those operations.
The project could feature modern logistics units with direct aircraft apron access, enabling faster loading and unloading of cargo.
Such facilities are particularly suited for time-critical shipments, including pharmaceuticals, automotive components and other high-priority goods.
Airport officials believe the project could also attract advanced manufacturing and pharmaceutical companies seeking to establish logistics bases near the airport.
According to Alice Andreasen, chief corporate affairs officer at Newcastle Airport, the development could generate thousands of jobs and millions of pounds in economic benefits for the region.
The airport already contributes over £1 billion annually to the regional economy, while supporting approximately 3,500 on-site jobs and 17,000 additional roles across its supply chain.
The project was recently showcased at MIPIM, the global property investment conference held in Cannes, as part of the airport’s search for investors.
A planning application for the AirLink development is expected to be submitted in the near future.
