Wednesday 30th April 2014

Tim Jeans is appointed as new Chairman of

Cornwall Airport Limited

Tim Jeans, one of the leading figures in the airline industry, has been appointed as the new Chairman of Cornwall Airport Limited, the company which manages Newquay Cornwall Airport on behalf of Cornwall Council. 

Cornwall Airport Limited (CAL), a private limited company which is wholly owned by the Council, is responsible for all airport operations including CAA licensing, customer services, commercial development, route development and marketing. 

Tim Jeans has over 20 years experience in the industry having held executive management positions with some of the UK’s leading airlines, including Ryanair, MyTravel & Monarch Airlines.

Announcing the appointment Cornwall Council’s Chief Executive Andrew Kerr said “Tim's understanding of the industry and the significant role he has played in the development of Ryanair in the 2000s, including the introduction of Ryanair services to Cornwall, means he is extremely well placed to take Newquay Cornwall Airport on to the next stage of its development.”

"I'm delighted to be taking up this appointment at a pivotal time for aviation in Cornwall” said Tim Jeans.  “Recent events have underscored the need for an airport to facilitate links between the region and the rest of the UK and Europe. The airport is fortunate to enjoy the support of both Regional and National Government and I look forward to helping to realise the potential that undoubtedly exists for the airport to grow and develop to the benefit of the Cornish economy “ .

Friday 20th June 2014

Minister commends Newquay Aerohub as one of the UK's most successful enterprise Zones

Local Growth Minister Kris Hopkins has made an official ministerial visit to Aerohub at Newquay Cornwall Airport, the successful aviation/aerospace Enterprise Zone, located on the state of the art civilian airport.

The Minister was introduced to representatives of a number of the leading companies that have located at Aerohub including Andrew Sangster, Managing Director of CIS UK Ltd, and Kevin Glenister, Site Manager for Apple Aviation.

The Minister officially opened CIS’ new facility at Aerohub and discussed the company’s ambitious growth plans. He also met with Apple Aviation and was introduced to a number of apprentices drawn from their innovative training programme.

Apple Aviation’s recently opened facility comprises a 25,000 square foot hanger for aircraft maintenance, repair, overhaul and recycling.  The Minister watched Apple’s team prepare for the recycling of the first aircraft on their tear down facility. 

The Minister also took the opportunity to discuss the future development of Aerohub with Chris Pomfret, Chairman of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership, Al Titterington, Managing Director of Cornwall Airport Limited, and Miles Carden, Enterprise Zone Manager at Cornwall Development Company.

Kris Hopkins, Local Growth Minister, commented: “Aerohub is one of 24 enterprise zones across England helping to create an economy driven by private sector growth.  They are a key part of the Government’s long-term economic plan which aims to drive local and national growth.  Since they started, enterprise zones have created over 9,000 jobs, attracted over 300 businesses and secured £1.2 billion of private sector investment.

“Aerohub, is an excellent example how this is happening in Cornwall, building on the local strengths to develop into a catalyst for the wider local economy. It is fantastic to see businesses choosing Newquay as their British base and winning new business in decommissioning aircraft. ”

Monday 16th June 2014

Passenger growth continues at Newquay Cornwall Airport

Newquay Cornwall Airport has seen a 28% growth in passenger numbers since the turn of the year compared to the same period in 2013. Passenger numbers have increased from over 61,500 in Jan - May 2013 to 78,700 in 2014.

Whilst the storms in the early part of 2014 left most of the South West battered and damaged which affected Cornwall’s transport network, Newquay Cornwall Airport maintained its year around services to London, Manchester and the Isles of Scilly. The resilience of the Airport facilitated quick and convenient travel in and out of Cornwall.

The growth in passengers has continued into the spring with April and May 2014 showing 25% and 15% growth respectively compared to the previous year.  London Gatwick, Manchester and the new Birmingham and London Southend services are particularly strong.

Commenting, Managing Director Al Titterington said “the growth in passengers is really positive and reflects the upturn in the economy and all routes are performing well. The Airport is a key part of Cornwall & Isles of Scilly transport infrastructure and the connections available for air travel are growing and we hopeful to announce new routes for 2015 in the coming months, which will see this passenger growth trend continue”.

Monday 7th July 2014

Newquay Cornwall Airport sees continued growth in passenger numbers

Newquay Cornwall Airport continues to see improved growth in passenger numbers in the first half of 2014, compared with the same period in 2013.

Between January – June passenger numbers increased from 81,500 in 2013 to nearly 100,000 in 2014, a 23% rise.

June’s performance continued to be strong with passenger numbers up 13% vs June 2013.

easyJet services (Thursday & Sunday) to Liverpool started last week which means the full summer schedule is in operation and forward bookings are looking good, this upward trend versus last year is expected to continue. 

Adam Paynter, Cornwall Council Member for Partnerships commented ““It is great to see passenger numbers being sustained after the Dawlish rail line collapse when the airport was vital to keeping Cornwall moving. The increased number of destinations over the summer is great news for Cornish residents flying out and also bringing in passengers to spend their money in the Cornish economy.”

Thursday 17th July 2014

Cornwall identified as possible location for UK’s first spaceport

Newquay Cornwall Airport has been identified as a possible location for the UK’s first spaceport for commercial space flight.

A cross-government team, including the UK Space Agency, Civil Aviation Authority and Department for Transport, has published a long list of eight sites that it has identified as potentially suitable for a spaceport.

The Government is committed to achieving a four-fold expansion of the UK space industry to £40bn by 2030, including an ambition to establish a spaceport in the UK by 2018.

A spaceport is a facility for the operation of sub-orbital spaceplanes. These are commercial civilian aircraft that may operate to deploy satellites, perform space experiments, or for space tourism.

Newquay Cornwall Airport is the only site in England identified by the review as matching the proposed criteria for a spaceport. Other sites have been identified in Wales and Scotland.

The Department for Transport will now start a consultation period before inviting formal bids in the autumn, with a view to choosing a preferred site by April next year.

Newquay Cornwall Airport is already home to Aerohub, the aerospace-focused Enterprise Zone which extends to 325 hectares and is the largest planning-free development site in the UK. It is located on the coast with uncongested and unrestricted airspace and one of the longest runways (2,744m) in the UK – all crucial criteria for a spaceport.

As well as being home to an increasing number of aerospace-focused businesses on the site, Aerohub is also the UK test location for The BLOODHOUND Project, the UK-led global project to build a supersonic jet-powered car that aims to set a 1,000mph land speed record.

And it is at the forefront of developments in the unmanned aerial vehicles sector through a partnership with West Wales Airport under the banner of the National Aeronautical Centre.

Commenting on today’s announcement by the Minister for Universities and Science, which was made at the Farnborough International Airshow, Chris Pomfret, chairman of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “The Aerohub at Newquay Cornwall Airport is a unique and nationally important asset and we want to unlock further growth in the aerospace and space sectors to create skilled well-paid jobs. Satellite technology is also an important part of the future economic strategy for Cornwall.

“To be shortlisted by the UK Space Agency review speaks volumes for the quality and location of Aerohub, but it is very early days. Before we make any decisions about whether

we might eventually bid to host a spaceport we need to look carefully at the Civil Aviation Authority’s technical report and engage with the consultation over the coming months before deciding on any next steps.”

Monday 28th July 2014

Will Ashworth is appointed as a Non Executive Director of Cornwall Airport Limited

 Will Ashworth, Managing Director of Watergate Bay Hotel has been appointed to the Board of Directors of Cornwall Airport Limited, the company which manages Newquay Cornwall Airport on behalf of Cornwall Council as a Non Executive Director. Will has extensive global experience in the hospitality industry and in 2000 returned to Cornwall to take over the running of the family hotel at Watergate Bay.  Will is also a co-founder of Fifteen Cornwall, the Jamie Oliver inspired restaurant, and is passionate about supporting tourism in Cornwall and takes an active role in promoting the sector. Commenting on his appointment Will said “I’m delighted to be joining Cornwall Airport Ltd as I believe it is a vital part of the Cornish economy. It positively influences Cornwall’s visitor revenue and is an important component in attracting inward investment. The increasing passenger numbers as well as businesses locating to the Aerohub, the UK’s only aerospace focused Enterprise Zone, gives me the confidence that the airport will go from strength to strength. I look forward to supporting the executive team.” Tim Jeans, Chairman of Cornwall Airport Limited commented “"I'm delighted that Will has agreed to join the Airport Board. Inbound tourism is central to the future development and growth of the airport and to have his skills and knowledge to call on as we plan and deliver our strategy, will be invaluable in the years ahead".

Friday 22nd August 2014

July passenger numbers continue to increase at Newquay Cornwall Airport

Passenger numbers continued to grow in July with over 30,000 people travelling through the airport, resulting in an increase of 24% compared with July 2013.

This positive trend is also reflected in the year to date figures which show Jan – July 2014 passenger numbers were up 32% versus the same period in 2013.

Al Titterington Managing Director, Newquay Cornwall Airport said “I’m really pleased to see all of our services performing well and in particular our new daily Birmingham service operated by flybe which has already carried over 9,000 passengers since the route commenced in May”. Underling the importance of the Birmingham route for leisure and business people alike Mark Peters, MD of Pirate FM commented “I'm not at all surprised

this continues to be successful, it’s a fantastic service.  I have used the Birmingham and London routes on a weekly basis since March and have saved countless days’ worth of travelling time. This provides a huge business benefit but is even more poignant when travelling back to see the family”.

The connectivity from flybe micro HUBs like Birmingham and Manchester allows passengers to benefit not only from direct access to the Midlands and the North (in under 90 minutes) but also for onward travel through their extensive route network. Titterington commented further stating “These 2 destinations, along with the availability of daily return flights to London Gatwick, offer passengers the opportunity to fly onward to hundreds of destinations worldwide through flybe’s code share and interline partner agreements, offering convenient global connections to the people of Cornwall”.

Friday, 5 September, 2014

Secretary of State welcomes £6m funding secured for Aerohub Business Park development

Vince Cable, Secretary of State for Business, welcomed today’s announcement that Aerohub @ Newquay Cornwall Airport, the UK’s aviation focused Enterprise Zone (EZ), has £6m of new funding for the first phase of its business park.  The development has the potential to create 750 jobs.

The funding includes a £2,312,000 investment from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) and a grant from the European Regional Development Fund Convergence programme of £3,934,856, with Cornwall Council providing the land. The construction programme will start in early October and see completion of phase one in June 2015.

The 53.5 acre business park site will form part of the Aerohub EZ and is included in the EZ’s Local Development Order. It will have space for over 30,000 sq ft of buildings and phase one will ensure the Park is investor ready, delivering site services including road access, electricity, water and broadband. The HCA funding also includes a £150,000 contribution to the ‘Rialton Link’ road, adding to the improvement of local infrastructure.

As part of it long term economic plan the Government set up the 24 Enterprise Zones as a 25-year project to rebalance the economy and create future centres of excellence in key industries such as aviation, pharmaceutical, offshore energy and automotive. Since their start three years ago enterprise zones have created more than 9,000 jobs, attracted over 300 businesses and secured £1.2 billion of private sector investment.

Dr Cable welcomed the announcement as he passed through the EZ during his visit to Cornwall today and commented: “Cornwall’s Aerohub is an excellent example of one of the 24 Government-backed Enterprise Zones that are driving private sector-led growth across

England. This new funding will help develop valuable infrastructure for the new Business Park to attract increased investment and create more jobs for Newquay and the surrounding area.”

Chris Pomfret, Chairman of the Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership and Deputy Chair of the Convergence Local Management Committee, commented: “The business park is a vital component of the Aerohub Enterprise Zone which is already home to six new businesses and has created more than 150 jobs since 2012. Our aim is to unlock further growth of both the aerospace and space sectors in Cornwall to create skilled, well-paid jobs and this investment is an important step towards achieving that.” 

Ian Knight, Head of Area for the Homes and Communities Agency, said: “This is great news for Cornwall. It is an important investment for us because it helps to unlock development on the enterprise zone and act as a spur for further investment and jobs growth. We look forward to working with the local partners and using our skills in investment and regeneration to developing a thriving business park. We believe this project will add significant value to the Cornish economy.”

Julian German, Cornwall Council Portfolio Holder for Economy & Culture, added: “The Council is delighted that we have secured funding through the EU (ERDF) programme and the HCA to deliver the new Business Park located on the south side of the airport.  Once completed, this will attract new businesses employing a highly skilled workforce, demonstrating that we can still attract companies to Cornwall in a very competitive market.”

Aerohub @ Newquay Cornwall Airport has a number of high profile clients within the 280-acre site and has ample development opportunities which include hangars and office buildings, in addition to the business park. The EZ has one of the largest areas covered by a Local Development Order in existence, providing a streamlined planning regime and removing the need for a planning application for certain types of development.

Monday, 27 October, 2014

Aviation Minister announces award of contract for Newquay to London air service to Flybe

LTR: Ben Burge (Flybe), Aviation Minister Robert Goodwill, Adam Paynter (Cornwall Council)

Aviation Minister Robert Goodwill and Adam Paynter, Cornwall Council’s Cabinet Member for Partnerships, have today announced that Flybe has been awarded the contract to operate the air service between Newquay Cornwall Airport and London Gatwick for the next four years.

Flying into Newquay on Flybe’s early morning service from Gatwick to make the announcement, the Minister said that the airline would now be operating three daily return flights on weekdays all year round.

The new service, which formally began on 26 October, is supported by a Public Service Obligation which will see up to £2.8m of funding support provided by the Government over the next four years to safeguard the vital air link.

UK Aviation Minister Robert Goodwill said: “Keeping our regions connected with London is a vital part of our long term economic plan. Fast, frequent flights to the South West will unlock access to stunning landscapes and skilled businesses, benefiting the region and the UK as a whole.”

The safeguarding of flights between Newquay and London Gatwick has been welcomed by Adam Paynter who said the authority had been working closely with the Department for Transport to secure the best possible deal for Cornwall.

“We know that the airport already provides a vital link for businesses, visitors and local residents who want a fast and reliable service to and from London” he said. “Businesses in Cornwall have told us that the additional lunchtime flight will make a big differenceto them and I am delighted that we have been able to work with the Government and Flybe to enable this to happen. “I would like to thank the Minister for taking the time to travel to Cornwall to make this announcement in person today. I would also like to pay tribute to the hard work and determination of all our partners, including our MPs, who have helped the Council to safeguard the future of this route by making the case for the Public Service Obligation “.

Flybe’s Chief Executive, Saad Hammad said “The people of Cornwall need efficient and affordable air access to the capital, which is faster than road and rail. So we welcome today’s announcement. It is an important step in improving regional connectivity in the UK, which contributes significantly to economic development. Flybe’s strategic vision is to give regional customers around the country more convenient access to the wider world. We look forward to continuing to serve our passengers flying to and from Newquay.”

Al Titterington, Managing Director, Newquay Cornwall Airport commented “Gatwick has been the backbone of the Airport’s route network for a number of years and it is has been extremely important for us to secure its continuation under the Public Service Obligation. A year round daily return service is vital for the Cornish economy and this announcement can give confidence to those using the airport and this important service. “Flybe are the largest operator here at Newquay and our aim is to continue to grow the number of destinations we operate with them by utilising their extensive network. This relationship will help our route development plans alongside other vital routes such as Manchester and Birmingham”.

Commenting, local MP Stephen Gilbert said “The threat to the Newquay to London air-link wasn't just a threat to the airport, it was a threat to the whole Cornish economy. The airport brings over £54million a year to the Cornish economy and is responsible for providing jobs in Cornwall”. “Losing the route would have plunged us into economic problems across Cornwall and I am delighted that we have been able to secure a four-year funding deal and three return flights a day. I have a simple message to businesses across Cornwall: the air-link to London is here to stay, it's been saved and it can now be used to continue to grow the recovery across Cornwall."

Wednesday, 12 November, 2014

Flybe announce new service between Newquay Cornwall Airport and London Stansted for summer

2015

Today Flybe, Europe’s largest regional airline has announced a new service between Newquay Cornwall Airport and London Stansted as part of its expansion plans from the Airport.  This service will commence in May 2015 and operates from Newquay Airport as part of its summer schedule until September 2015, offering a minimum of 3 departures per week.

Flights will operate on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday and one way fares are available from £29.99 including taxes and charges and can be booked at www.flybe.com

Al Titterington, Newquay Cornwall Airport’s Managing Director commented “This is a further boost to the Airport and the tourism economy and follows on the back of the Gatwick announcement at the end of October. In previous times Stansted had been a key route for Cornwall bringing high value inbound tourism from its affluent catchment like Cambridge. We expect passenger demand to be strong and will be working with our partners to promote Cornwall”.

Wednesday, 19 November, 2014

Newquay Cornwall Airport announces new service with Aer Lingus to Dublin for 2015

Commencing 1 May 2015, with up to five-times weekly service by summer 2015; Aer Lingus Regional, operated by Stobart Air, is targeting 20,000 passengers in the first year;

Today Newquay Cornwall Airport is pleased to announce that Aer Lingus (Regional) will commence a new service to Dublin from May 2015 operating up to five-times weekly.  The new service brings a new Airline brand and destination to the Airport and signifies the dawn of a new commercial relationship with Aer Lingus.

Aer Lingus Regional, operated by Stobart Air, is targeting 20,000 passengers in the first year of service.

Passengers will depart Newquay Cornwall Airport arriving in Dublin. Initially, there will be four flights per week – Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday – increasing to five flights per week – Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday – in the peak summer months, from 27 June to 5 September 2015.

Al Titterington - Managing Director, Newquay Cornwall Airport commented “I am delighted to announce this exciting new service to Dublin with a high profile airline like Aer Lingus.  Our customers have been demanding this connection and Dublin has been a key focus of the airport’s route development strategy which aims to grow our sustainable route portfolio across multiple airlines. We expect the route to be very popular, especially inbound visitors from Ireland, and will also offer seamless connectivity to the USA where passengers can pre-clear customs and immigration in Dublin”.

Julian Carr, Managing Director of Stobart Air, said: “Aer Lingus Regional is very pleased to be offering Ireland’s first route to Cornwall. We are confident that it will become a popular route, and a key part of our summer services. The addition of Newquay, our thirteenth route from Dublin Airport, reflects the ongoing success of our airline in providing value and key connections for our customers.

“Cornwall and South West England have a great deal to offer, maintaining their own unique culture and history through numerous heritage and leisure sites, arts and language festivals, and varied cuisine.”

Councillor Adam Paynter – Portfolio Holder for Partnerships, Cornwall Council said “Today’s announcement is more great news for the airport and for Cornwall. The introduction of this route will bring significant numbers to Cornwall next year, which ultimately will support local tourism. The county relies heavily on visitors from outside the region and to have a quick and convenient connection with Ireland will bring significant economic benefits

Thursday, 27 November, 2014

Future development plans for the Airport go to public consultation

The Newquay Cornwall Airport Masterplan is being reviewed to consider the changes in the aviation environment over the last 5 years and how the Airport can be developed to help grow Cornwall’s economy and how it can be more commercially and environmentally self-sustaining. The public is being asked to comment on the refreshed plans as a 6 week public consultation is launched with a two day event to be held in the Airport terminal.

The current Airport Masterplan was approved by Cornwall Council in June 2009, but since then the global economic downturn has had a significant effect on the aviation sector. To ensure that development is based on accurate and current information, including the establishment of the Enterprise Zone (EZ) in 2012, it is the right time to review and refresh the plan to take the Airport and EZ forward for the next 10 years.

Adam Paynter, Cornwall Council’s Cabinet Member for Partnerships, said “Cornwall Council recognises Newquay Cornwall Airport’s importance to the Cornish economy and is committed to its sustainable development. The refresh of the Masterplan will identify how the Airport can help Cornwall to grow its economy through the creation of an aerospace cluster and other airport related business activity and is vital for the connectivity it provides.”

The Masterplan review explores the options available for the Airport to provide high quality facilities and a business environment to meet modern aviation needs. It also investigates the possibility of providing a new sustainable aerospace business cluster to attract aviation industries.

Al Titterington, managing director of Newquay Cornwall Airport, said “The aviation industry is starting to emerge from its worst decline in decades so it is important that the Masterplan is updated to reflect a new and emerging industry sector and that communities and stakeholders are kept updated on our development plans.

“I believe the proposals on display will clearly identify not only how the Airport plans to develop airline and commercial operations but also outlines how the Airport plans to attract aviation related industries to the Enterprise Zone. The development of aviation and engineering businesses onsite is now as relevant to the Airport’s success as the commercial agreements planned with airlines.

“The public consultation at the Airport will showcase updated information on how the Airport aims to meet the needs of the aviation industry and how we will deliver results for the traveler using the services as well as for supporting the local economy”.

Cornwall Development Company (CDC), on behalf of Cornwall Airport Ltd and Cornwall Council, commissioned the project to review the Masterplan and the work undertaken so far will now be made available through a public consultation.

The general public, businesses and decision makers in Cornwall are all invited to attend a 2 day public event at the Airport, where the proposals will be displayed in the Terminal Building. The event takes place on Sunday 30th November from 12pm to 7:30pm and on Monday 1st December from 6am until 7pm. One hour of free car parking will be available for those visiting specifically to attend the consultation.

All materials will also be available online on the Council’s website: www.cornwall.gov.uk/airportmasterplan from the 30th November 2014 and there will be an opportunity to leave feedback and comments as well details of the consultation event. The information will also be made available in other locations around the county, the dates and venues of which will be confirmed soon.

Newquay Cornwall Airport has been shortlisted as a possible location for the UK Spaceport and the refreshed Masterplan will be an important document that would support any potential bid from Cornwall. The Airport Masterplan refresh is funded by the European Regional Development Fund as part of the Infrastructure and Business Development Project.

Thursday, 15 January, 2015

Newquay Cornwall Airport passengers numbers increase by 20% in 2014

Passenger numbers at Newquay Cornwall Airport continued to grow in the final quarter of the year with over 43,400 travellers using the airport compared with the same period in 2013, an increase of 31%.

Throughout 2014 Newquay Cornwall Airport saw total passenger numbers increase by 36,500 versus the previous year with over 220,000 using the airport to travel from the South West across the UK and Europe, as well as facilitating thousands of visitors flying into the county.

Total passenger numbers for 2014 were up 20% on the previous year. This strong performance was mainly due to high demand and usage of the daily services to and from Newquay to London Gatwick (3 daily flights) and Manchester as well as the summer services operating between Newquay, Birmingham and Liverpool being extremely popular. As part of their ongoing commitment to support the airport’s destination portfolio and development strategy, Flybe, Europe’s largest regional airline announced early in 2014 the commencement of a new four times weekly summer service between Newquay and London Stansted. Other new routes announced include a brand new service to Dublin with Aer Lingus. With services starting in May operating up to five times per week this is a key destination added to the Airport’s portfolio.

Al Titterington, Managing Director, Newquay Cornwall Airport commented “The growth in passenger numbers and destinations in 2014 was extremely encouraging and demonstrates that with an improving economy we continue to see a positive growth profile at the airport. With new destinations added to the flight schedule, regional connectivity was bolstered and worldwide travel options opened up via airline partnerships offering convenient flights from hubs at Manchester, Gatwick and Birmingham.

2015 passenger forecasts show further growth in passenger numbers as we have added new destinations such as Dublin and London-Stansted and continue in discussions with a number of airlines which we hope will add further destinations to be flown from the Airport. Our full summer schedule will offer convenient direct flights to Cornwall from across the UK, Ireland and Germany which is vital in supporting the Cornish economy.”

Cllr Adam Paynter, Cornwall Council Member for Partnerships commented “The increase in passenger numbers in 2014 is great news for the local economy and further demonstrates the importance of having an airport in Cornwall. The support by Flybe and Aer Lingus in operating new destinations in 2015 shows their commitment to Cornwall and the inbound tourism market, which is vital for our local businesses.

This summer the airport will offer convenient and timely access to the South West from key destinations across the UK and Eire and the economic benefits for the county are significant as large numbers of travellers are expected especially from Dublin serviced by Aer Lingus and Liverpool via easyJet. This, along with daily access for residents in Cornwall to travel to key UK destinations and beyond, means that the airport continues to ‘keep Cornwall connected’ for both the business and leisure traveller.”

Tuesday, 27 January, 2015

Flybe increase flights between Newquay and Manchester to 10 per week

Newquay Cornwall Airport are pleased to announce that Flybe, Europe’s largest regional airline will be increasing services between Newquay and Manchester to 10 flights per week, starting 29th March 2015. Additional flights will operate on Mondays, Fridays and Sundays offering additional capacity to the current daily service which operates year-round.

The Manchester route has been very successful and carries just under 50,000 passengers per annum providing a quick and convenient travel option for people coming to Cornwall or using the service to connect to Manchester and beyond. With a flight time of just over an hour to Manchester, this service is ideal for passengers travelling for both leisure or business, as it also opens up the option to connect onwards from Manchester to destinations worldwide using Flybe’s (interline) partners. Flybe currently has 20 interline partners including Emirates, Virgin Atlantic, Qantas Airways and American Airlines and by using these partners or codeshare agreements, popular worldwide destinations become more accessible to the Cornish community.

Monday, 16 February, 2015

Flybe boosts Stansted summer flights to and from Newquay

Europe’s leading regional airline will now fly daily to London Stansted during peak summer season. Flybe, Europe’s largest regional airline, has added eight more flights to its brand new peak summer service between Newquay Cornwall and London Stansted airports, meaning that Cornwall customers now have the choice of a daily service on this key leisure route that will operate from 16th May through to 29th September, 2015.

Flights will operate as follows:

Mon-FriDepart Newquay (NQY) 1345 Arr Stansted (STN) 1510Dep STN 1535 Arr NQY 1655

Sat/SunDep NQY 1100 Arr STN 1225Dep STN 1250 Arr NQY 1410

One way fares are from £29.99 including taxes and charges and available for booking at www.flybe.com

Paul Simmons, Flybe’s Chief Commercial Officer, comments: "We are pleased to add these additional flights to this new leisure route. Bolstering connectivity is our number one aim at Flybe.”

Newquay Cornwall Managing Director, Al Titterington, adds: “Flybe’s decision to increase its Stansted service to a daily frequency will further enhance the connectivity to this new destination and an unserved area to the north-east of London. It offers accessibility to Cornwall by air to those leisure travellers who would not normally fly. The increased capacity will also offer greater flexibility for those passengers looking for a short break.”

Flybe’s 2015 Summer schedule to and from Newquay features seven routes with a total choice of up to 92 flights a week.

Thursday, 26 February, 2015

Cornwall welcomes visit by Secretary of State for Transport Patrick McLoughlin

Cornwall Council welcomed on the 19th February a visit by the Secretary of State for Transport Patrick McLoughlin who has spent the day visiting key road, rail, air and maritime projects across Cornwall.

The Secretary of State flew into Newquay Cornwall Airport on the early morning Flybe flight from Gatwick where he was met by Bert Biscoe, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport; Chris Pomfret, the Chair of Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership; Al Titterington, Managing Director of Newquay Cornwall Airport; Cornwall Councillor John Fitter, the local Member for St Mawgan and Colan; Kim Conchie, Chief Executive of the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce; Ann Vandermeulen, Cornwall Development Manager of the Federation of Small Businesses and Adrian Penter, Regional Chairman of the Federation of Small Businesses.

Welcoming the Secretary of State’s visit, Bert Biscoe said “With these investments and the forward thinking of Cornwall Council and its partners, we are seeing real progress in

developing sustainable links to the Isles of Scilly and London which will improve connections to and from Cornwall for the future. With the re signalling of the mainline and a refurbished sleeper and strengthened maintenance capacity, we are linking into the future rail network as well as being ahead of the game in digital connectivity.”

“This all represents an innovative, creative and can-do culture founded on the partnerships between Cornwall, transport operators and Central Government. I look forward to welcoming the first half hour rail shuttle to arrive in Cornwall in 2018.”

The Secretary of State was given a briefing on the development of the Airport, which has seen 20% increase in passenger numbers in 2014, with details on how passenger numbers on the London Gatwick service have increased since the introduction of the Department for Transport supported Public Service Obligation at the end of October last year. The PSO has provided security and confidence to passengers which has helped the airport secure new services to Dublin and Stansted as well as the expansion of other services to Manchester, Birmingham and Isles of Scilly. The Airport is also the site of Cornwall’s Aerohub Enterprise Zone, which has created over 140 jobs and attracted 7 new investors since its inception in 2012.

Following the Airport briefing the Secretary of State travelled to Penzance where he was greeted by Andrew May and Rob Goldsmith, the Chair and Chief Executive of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Company. He was then taken on a tour of the Scillonian passenger vessel and Penzance harbour where he met David Nebesnuick, Mayor of Penzance Town Council and representatives of the Council of the Isles of Scilly, and local Cornwall Councillors Cornelius Olivier and Jim McKenna.

The £12.8m scheme to improve the harbours at St Mary’s and Penzance harbours is being delivered by Cornwall Council as the Local Transport Authority in partnership with the Council of the Isles of Scilly, Penzance Town Council; Duchy of Cornwall, Isles of Scilly Steamship Company and supported by the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Company. Funding for the scheme is coming from the Department of Transport and the European Regional Growth Fund.

After leaving Penzance the Secretary of State then travelled to Camborne, Pool and Redruth where he met local MP George Eustice; Ty Nelson, Project Manager for Carillion; Julian Urbans, Principal Engineer for CORMAC, and local Cornwall Councillor Malcolm Moyle at the site of the East-West link road, before driving along the new stretch of road.

The East West Link road is a familiar project for the Secretary of State who cut the first turf to formally mark the start of work on the £27m road on 16 May 2013. As well as the new East West link road, the scheme, which has been funded by the Department of Transport, with financial support towards the development costs from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) includes new junctions and cycle facilities on Dudnance Lane and Station Road, and a new link from Station Road to Wilson Way.

The road will provide access to proposed development areas and remove traffic from the A3047 and the East Hill junction. This will reduce congestion and the associated noise and air quality impacts, whilst allowing regeneration projects in the area to proceed over the coming years, supporting economic growth.

After leaving Camborne, the group drove to the Truro Park and Ride site at Langarth where the Secretary of State met local MP Sarah Newton and Arron Kelly, Park and Ride Manager before transferring to a Park and Ride bus for a journey to Truro Railway station.

Truro’s Western Park and Ride was opened in August 2008 and with stops at Truro College, the Royal Cornwall Hospital, New County Hall, and Truro City centre, has been highly successful in encouraging commuters and shoppers to swap their cars for the bus. The site provides capacity for 1209 cars to park, with the latest figures showing between 1300-1400 passengers using the service each day.

After being greeted by representatives from First Great Western, the Secretary of State had a tour of the rail station and was given an update on the proposals to upgrade the station, with a new lounge area for sleeper passengers and improved car parking.

The £146.6m package of improvements to Cornwall’s rail network was announced by Prime Minister David Cameron during a visit to Cornwall last July. As well as the improvements to the sleeper service, the funding will also be used to expand the Long Rock train maintenance site at Penzance to maintain Cornwall’s sleeper trains, safeguarding jobs and creating new training opportunities; and to bring forward a major programme of signalling improvements which will provide faster journeys between Penzance and Totnes and paving the way for the potential introduction of half-hourly services on the Cornish mainline.

The Secretary of State then travelled to Bodmin Town Council offices where he met local Cornwall Councillors Steve Rogerson, Pat Rogerson, Ann Kerridge and Chris Batters and representatives from Bodmin Town Council and the Better Bodmin group for a briefing on the Bodmin Cycling Town proposals.

The aim of the £3.4m scheme is to increase growth in the local economy by building upon a unique cycle offer and encouraging new housing and employment to maximise the benefits of an extensive walking and cycling network. The scheme includes innovative plans to create a “shared space” scheme in Bodmin’s Dennison Road and Church Square by improving conditions for pedestrians and cyclists, removing street clutter and reducing traffic speeds.

Thursday, 5 March, 2015

Cornish singers landing at Gatwick Airport to celebrate St Piran’s Day

The sounds of Cornwall will be filling the air at Gatwick Airport today (Thursday March 5) to celebrate St Piran’s Day – the county’s national day.

To mark the occasion, a group of Cornish shanty singers from The Press Gang are flying up to the airport to serenade passengers spontaneously throughout the day. As well as the sounds of Cornwall, lucky travellers are also being treated to Cornish pasties from Prima Bakery. Pirate FM is also joining in the celebrations and hosting a series of outside broadcasts between 10am and 2pm with The Press Gang singers live from Gatwick Airport.

The Cornish celebration event also coincides with Flybe, Europe’s largest regional airline, celebrating six years of operating the Newquay Cornwall Airport route to Gatwick Airport. Since 2009, Flybe has been connecting Cornwall and the capital and running daily flights up to three times a day.

The national day of Cornwall – St Piran’s Day - is an annual event celebrated on March 5. Named after Saint Piran, the patron saint of Cornwall, the day is marked throughout the county with colourful parades and Celtic-inspired celebrations.

Al Titterington, Managing Director, Newquay Cornwall Airport, said: “The Gatwick route is an incredibly important asset to Cornwall for both the business and  leisure passenger and we are delighted to be part of the St Piran’s Day celebrations. Not only does the route continue to provide a convenient travel option for connecting Cornwall to the capital but it also enables travellers to connect to the world.”

Malcolm Bell, Head of Visit Cornwall, said: “As well as a connection to the capital, the Gatwick to Newquay route links Cornwall to destinations across the world, providing invaluable access to new markets and unlimited potential to grow our visitor base. The culture of Cornwall is one of our greatest assets and what makes Cornwall so unique, and when better than our national day to take a piece of this to London and showcase it to travellers.”

Paul Simmons, Flybe’s Chief Commercial Officer, said: “We are very pleased to mark the sixth anniversary of our Newquay and London Gatwick route – and what better way to celebrate than on St Piran’s Day. The route continues to be popular with both business and leisure travellers alike, and particularly those who want to avoid the five hour rail journey between Newquay and London.“Newquay is a key destination for Flybe, connecting the region to a number of UK cities, including Manchester and Birmingham. “

Matt Wood, Head of Airline Relations at Gatwick Airport, said: “Regional links with London are vital to local economies, and Gatwick is proud of its route to Newquay, which provides quick and easy access into London for passengers throughout the South West. Gatwick is an important gateway to central London, and the rest of the country, via its broad network of rail services.”  

Monday, 23 March, 2015

New Heathrow commitments will help connect Cornwall to Global Growth

Please find a press release containing Cornwall Airport Limited’s response to Heathrow commitment to Cornwall, as outlined in their release.

The response is made by Cornwall Airport Limited, the operator of Newquay Cornwall Airport.CORNWALL AIRPORT LIMITED RESPONDS TO HEATHROW COMMITMENT TO

CORNWALL

In response to the announcement by Heathrow Airport that it is making a number of commitments which could offer future services between Cornwall and Heathrow Al Titterington, Managing Director Newquay Cornwall Airport said “The package of measures that Heathrow Airport has committed to deliver regional access is an extremely positive and much needed step forward. We have been working hard with both Heathrow and Gatwick to secure access to any new runway capacity and Heathrow is the first to make such a detailed public commitment to Cornwall. Whilst the measures announced don’t provide guaranteed access for Newquay what it does demonstrate is that Heathrow have listened to us and that the requirements of regional airports are being considered seriously.  Heathrow’s announcement makes some significant commitments to enable future access from Newquay (and other regional airports) which we fully support.

Our lobbying of the Government and the Davies Commission has been focused on the principle that any new runway should be for UK Plc not just the south east. Our analysis of passenger demand demonstrates that both business and leisure, inbound and outbound require access to global markets. Arguably, Heathrow is currently best placed to offer that global connectivity and their future commitments can only enhance what Cornwall and our passengers require”.

 

NEW HEATHROW COMMITMENTS WILL HELP CONNECT CORNWALL TO GLOBAL GROWTH

 

·         New £10 million Heathrow Route Development Fund boosting Newquay Cornwall Airport’s chance of a Heathrow connection to global growth

·         Commitment to work in partnership with airport, council and chamber of commerce to jointly-approach airlines for new routes

 

Heathrow has announced a new package of commitments, deliverable with expansion, to help businesses reach global growth markets through Newquay Cornwall Airport for the first time since 1997.

As the UK’s only hub airport, Heathrow connects to 75 destinations worldwide that aren’t served by other airports in the UK. The package is designed to help support routes from Newquay to the hub and includes a review of Heathrow’s charges for domestic routes to be implemented in January 2016. A £10 million Route Development Fund will also be established to provide start-up support new routes between airports like Newquay and Heathrow where needed.

Cornwall's burgeoning tourism sector has long relied on UK visitors for its success, but a connection to Heathrow, which has over 30 million foreign tourists passing through its

terminals every year - almost four times more than any other UK airport - could soon transform that. Likewise, the aerospace cluster that's growing around Newquay Airport could soon be within striking distance of the biggest names in the industry that are based in California, Carolina and, increasingly, China.

Because Heathrow has been full for the last ten years, many airlines have been forced to use available capacity for long-haul flights at the expense of domestic routes. As a result, the number of regional connections from Heathrow has fallen from 18 in 1990 to just seven today. Newquay was one such casualty, losing its connection to Heathrow in 1997.Independent research by Quod, commissioned by Heathrow and based on economic analysis by the Airports Commission, shows how an expanded Heathrow will benefit the South West, with the region expected to receive up to £10 billion in economic growth and 12,300 new jobs.

Today’s commitments, deliverable with a decision to expand, outline actions Heathrow will take before expansion, including:

·         A review of airport charges on domestic routes from 1 of January 2016 to help play our part in increasing their commercial viability.

·         Partnering with UK airports, LEPs, chambers of commerce, national and regional governments to jointly approach airlines to establish new domestic routes through Heathrow.

·         Working with any organisation that wants to operate Northolt as a satellite runway for UK routes until Heathrow is expanded.

After expansion, Heathrow will:·         Establish a new Heathrow Route Development Fund. £10 million in start-up capital for airlines to support five new routes for three years where the market doesn’t initially support them.

·         Work with government to re-designate Public Service Obligation (PSO) routes to Heathrow, the only airport that can connect them to and through London to growth markets across the globe.

Across the UK, the measures would boost Heathrow’s seven existing domestic routes, offering the potential for better timed and more frequent flights. In addition, our analysis indicates that passengers would be able to fly from nine domestic airports not currently served by Heathrow, meaning that a total of at least 16 regional airports will have the opportunity of direct links to the UK’s hub.

These measures have been informed by the recommendations of the National Connectivity Task Force, which suggest options for how to enhance connectivity between the UK’s nations and regions and the major airports in England’s South East.

Commenting on the commitments, John Holland-Kaye, Heathrow CEO, said: “We’re ready to connect Cornwall to global growth. We have been listening to businesses, politicians and now to the National Connectivity Task Force, and today’s announcement shows that we

have a plan to deliver what Britain needs.  Only Heathrow can connect all of Britain to global growth. That’s why we are best for Britain and backed by Britain. Let’s get on with it. “

Tuesday, 5 May, 2015

New route to Dublin launches in style at Newquay Cornwall Airport

Passengers travelling through Newquay Cornwall Airport were on Friday May 1 treated with a taste of Ireland to celebrate the launch of a new direct route to Dublin Airport.

Travellers were offered Guinness tasters in the main terminal area of the airport to coincide with the route’s inaugural flight.

For people landing into Newquay Cornwall Airport on the first flight from Dublin, passengers were given a warm Cornish welcome and offered gifts of local treats kindly donated by Rodda’s, Boddington’s Berries, Furniss Foods, The Lost Gardens of Heligan and St Austell Brewery as well as the latest issue of Cornwall Life magazine.

The Aer Lingus Regional route, which is being operated by Stobart Air, is initially launching with three flights per week between Newquay Cornwall Airport and Dublin Airport. From the beginning of June, the schedule will increase to five flights per week until September 27, 2015.

Big on pub culture, quirky museums, seriously good places to eat and a thriving shopping scene, Dublin's got all the key ingredients for a top short break. The flight from Newquay Cornwall Airport takes just 70 minutes.

Al Titterington, Managing Director, Newquay Cornwall Airport, said: “We’re extremely pleased to be launching this new route between Dublin and Newquay Cornwall Airport. Having identified the demand, and worked hard to champion the route, it’s fantastic to be celebrating the inaugural flight.

“It is exciting for the airport to be working with new airline partner Aer Lingus Regional and this service is a welcomed addition to our route portfolio, offering convenient and timely access between Dublin and Cornwall. Bookings throughout the summer are already very positive and the additional forecasted visitors this service will bring to the county will benefit local tourism as well as offering businesses easy connectivity.”

Martin Saxton, Chief Commercial Officer of Stobart Air, said: “We were delighted to be able to welcome passengers on board the inaugural flight from Newquay to Dublin, Cornwall’s only direct route to the Republic of Ireland.  The new route will offer customers the chance to explore one of Europe’s most popular weekend destinations, and to sample all Dublin has to offer including a busy schedule of summer music, theatre and horse racing festivals. 

“Passenger bookings are strong which reflects the popularity of Cornwall among the Irish and Dublin and we look forward to developing the route over the busy summer period.”

Flights from Dublin airport to Newquay start from only £29.99 per passenger one-way. The initial three flights per week will run on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The increased five flights per week schedule will operate on Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from June 1 to September 27, 2015.

For more information about how to book visit www.aerlingus.com.

Monday, 18 May, 2015

New flights to London Stansted commence from Newquay Cornwall Airport

To celebrate the new London Stansted to Newquay Cornwall Airport route, passengers on Saturday 16 May 2015 were greeted with a warm Cornish welcome, including local treats provided by a number of Cornish businesses including Rodda’s, Boddington’s Berries, Furniss Foods, and St Austell Brewery, as well as the latest issue of Cornwall Life Magazine.

The new route is a welcome addition to Newquay Cornwall Airport’s summer route portfolio and its commencement reflects Flybe’s continued commitment to offering passengers fast and convenient access in and out of the county. The daily service will now operate until 29 September 2015 with a flight time of 90 minutes. One-way fares are available from £29.99 including taxes and charges.

Al Titterington, Managing Director, Newquay Cornwall Airport, said: “This new route is a further addition to our expanding summer schedule supporting our overall route development strategy. The introduction of this service will connect Cornwall to the north east of London and an alternative access point to London as well as offering access to key destinations across Europe.

“Stansted will also bolster Cornwall tourism sector, offering easy passage from an affluent catchment area in the UK. We have already seen positive booking numbers and forecast passenger demand to be strong throughout the season.”

Chief Commercial Officer at Flybe, Paul Simmons, said: "Our new summer schedule from London Stansted is now fully operational! Flybe is fully committed to bringing new, accessible routes to our customers and our number one aim remains to bolster regional connectivity across the UK.  We look forward to welcoming  our new customers on board and to providing a fast and convenient way  to travel to this hugely popular summer hotspot and gateway to Cornwall. 

Commenting on the launch of this new service, Commercial Director at Stansted Airport, Mats Sigurdson, added :“We’re delighted to welcome Newquay back onto the flight schedules at Stansted and to increase our connections across the UK.  It’s also an important link for the half a million people living in Cornwall who now have direct access to over 170 destinations across Europe and North Africa from Stansted. 

“This is also great news for the millions of passengers in London and East of England who now have quick and easy access to one of the UK’s holiday hotspots and I’d like to wish Flybe every success with this new connection which I’m sure will be a very popular addition to the growing Stansted network.”

For more information about how to book visit www.flybe.com. For more information about Newquay Cornwall Airport visit www.newquaycornwallairport.com.

Monday, 18 May, 2015

60 minutes free car parking Newquay Cornwall Airport is pleased to announce that as of today 60 minutes free parking is being introduced to both airport car parks, allowing easy and convenient car park access for those picking up and dropping off passengers. For more information please visit www.newquaycornwallairport.com