Unveiling the Future: Newcastle Airport’s Major Cargo Hub Gets a New Identity

A major new cargo hub earmarked to be built at Newcastle Airport could create thousands of jobs and boost the North East economy by up to £165m a year.

The 750,000 sq ft site, which has officially been named AirLink, will serve as a key hub for cargo operators, freight forwarders and ground handling agents.

The development is being brought to market by the Airport in conjunction with its commercial property partner Naylors Gavin Black.

The site’s new name was unveiled at MIPIM – a four-day property and investment conference held in Cannes, France, which brings together key players in the real estate industry, including investors, developers and business officials.

AirLink was among several new development sites to be showcased at the event by the Airport, Newcastle City Council and Invest Newcastle, highlighting the North East’s strong investment potential.

Alice Andreasen, Chief Sustainability and Communications Officer at Newcastle Airport, said: “AirLink is a landmark development that could create high-quality jobs, generate millions for the local economy and unlock new opportunities for businesses.

“Presenting this project at MIPIM has been an incredible opportunity to showcase the North East’s vast potential on a global stage and reinforce its status as a prime destination for investment.

“We look forward to working with Newcastle City Council to bring AirLink to life, further strengthening the region as a major hub for international trade and economic growth.”

“Newcastle Airport plays a central role in ensuring our city remains an attractive and accessible destination and the development of Airlink will provide a home for the ambitious, export-oriented businesses we are looking to bring to Newcastle,” Michelle Percy, Director of Investment and Growth at Newcastle City Council, said.

“With the potential to create thousands of high-quality jobs, Airlink will strengthen the region’s logistics and supply chain capabilities, supporting key sectors such as advanced manufacturing and life sciences.”

Located south of the runway, AirLink will provide its occupiers with direct apron access allowing cargo to be loaded and unloaded swiftly and efficiently from aircraft.

This makes it an ideal location for businesses handling time-sensitive shipments, such as pharmaceuticals, auto parts and other high-priority deliveries.

The site also has excellent transport links and its close proximity to the A1 will ensure that goods can be quickly moved across the UK and beyond with ease.

Once built, AirLink could generate up to 1,400 direct jobs, with an additional 1,200 roles being created through supply chains and with business partners.

The development is set to play a crucial role in supporting the Airport’s growing cargo operations, which achieved a record high of handling over 6,000 tonnes in 2024.

The search for businesses to occupy AirLink is already underway. A planning application is due to be submitted later this year and the Airport has a preferred developer for the site.

“We are delighted to be working alongside Newcastle Airport to bring forward this excitin…