Newcastle Airport Expansion and Winter Flight Disruptions
Newcastle upon Tyne, 8 January 2026 – Newcastle International Airport is undergoing a major £60 million terminal expansion to boost capacity and passenger experience, with construction underway to accommodate rising demand from airlines like Ryanair, easyJet, and Jet2. The project, part of the airport’s Masterplan 2040, aims to increase passenger numbers to 9 million by 2040 and support economic growth in the North East. However, recent winter weather has caused flight delays and cancellations, affecting hundreds of passengers across the UK.
Terminal Expansion and Future Growth
The airport’s expansion includes a three-storey terminal extension, featuring more seating, restaurants, additional baggage carousels, and self-service check-in counters. Announced in 2025, the redevelopment is expected to enhance security processing and reduce queue times, providing a world-class experience for travellers. EasyJet’s decision to base three aircraft at Newcastle from March 2026, adding 11 new routes, is a key driver, alongside Ryanair’s third aircraft base for winter 2025/26, which introduced routes to destinations like Brussels and Krakow. Jet2 has also expanded with new summer services to Greece and Italy. These developments are projected to generate £1.9 billion for the North East economy and create thousands of jobs.
Key Facts and Statistics
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Expansion Cost | £60 million |
| Projected Passenger Numbers by 2040 | 9 million |
| Current Passenger Numbers (2024) | 5.1 million | Staff Expansion | From 3,900 to 5,000 employees |
| New Aircraft Stands | Over 20 additional stands |
| Net Zero Target | Achieved by 2035 via solar farms and wind turbines |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the current flight disruptions at Newcastle Airport?
Winter weather, including snow and ice, has led to delays and cancellations. On 8 January 2026, the airport reported very low delay status, but earlier in the week, heavy snow caused issues across the UK, with Newcastle seeing some grounded flights and extended wait times. Passengers are advised to check airline websites and arrive early.
How will the expansion affect passengers?
The £60 million project will increase terminal capacity by 50%, add more facilities like extra baggage carousels and seating, and improve processes. Benefits should be noticeable by summer 2026, with reduced queues and a better overall experience.
What new routes are available from Newcastle Airport?
EasyJet is launching 11 new routes from its March 2026 base, including domestic and European destinations. Ryanair added routes to Brussels, Budapest, Gdansk, Malta, and Krakow in winter 2025/26. Jet2 offers services to Thessaloniki, Preveza, and others in summer 2026.