NEWCASTLE Airport is among the UK's fastest‑growing airports as easyJet, Jet2 and Ryanair launch dozens of new holiday routes from the North East
The latest Civil Aviation Authority data shows it topped growth among the UK's 15 largest airports in the first quarter of 2026, just ahead of a record-breaking May half-term that saw more than 200,000 passengers pass through its doors, an eight per cent increase on last year.
Nick Jones, chief executive at Newcastle Airport, said: "Achieving a record-breaking May half term and being recognised for our strong growth is fantastic news and reflects the high demand for flights and package holidays from the North East.
"The continued investment from our airline partners is creating even more choice for our passengers, whether they’re enjoying a well-earned break in the sun, a European city break, visiting friends and family, or embarking on a long-haul adventure."
Popular destinations during the May break included Alicante, Ibiza, Palma, Dublin, and Paris, with many travellers also using the airport’s long-haul connections to reach destinations such as Bali, New York, and Tokyo.
The airport's growth has been fuelled by airline investment and network expansion.
Jet2 launched new routes to Porto, Preveza, and Palermo, while easyJet introduced its new base and will operate flights to 22 destinations across Europe and North Africa this summer.
Ryanair also expanded its services, adding routes to Budapest, Malta, and Marrakesh, and increasing capacity to seven existing destinations.
To support rising passenger numbers, the airport is investing nearly £60 million over two years to upgrade its facilities.
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