Forget Western Sydney International Airport for a minute, Newcastle Airport is gearing up for a major international debut, thanks to a $250 million upgrade and a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the NSW Government. And while there are a lot of positives in all this, I’m just waiting for the poor sod who ends up in our ‘Newy’ Down Under instead of Newcastle, England…
Newcastle Airport, co-owned by the City of Newcastle and Port Stephens Council, is undergoing significant redevelopment with its international terminal expected to open by mid-2025.
But it’s not just a case of “if you build it, they will come” (sorry Kevin). A newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Destination NSW aims to unlock new domestic and international routes for the airport through financial backing from the Aviation Attraction Fund (AAF). This support will provide route incentives for airlines and strategic marketing assistance, ensuring that Newcastle is well-positioned on the global travel map.
“This agreement puts Newcastle Airport on the runway for international success,” punned NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism, John Graham.
“The international terminal upgrade will be a massive boost for tourism in the Hunter and Mid-North Coast. It will also cement NSW as the number one gateway to Australia.”
A boost for tourism and the economy
With the Hunter region’s world-class vineyards, long stretches of white sand beaches, and growing reputation as a desirable destination (I was born in the Hunter, so not biased at all), the new international routes will inject billions into the local economy.
The airport upgrade is expected to bring an additional 850,000 visitors annually and contribute $6.2 billion in visitor spending over the next two decades, Destination NSW projects. It’s also set to generate over $6.5 billion in freight activity, supporting regional businesses.
“We’re one step closer to showcasing the Hunter like never before,” Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley said.
“Why not explore the region when you’re in Australia? We have endless opportunities – from vineyards to beaches – and we’re eager to welcome the rest of the world.”
This global connection is expected to transform the Hunter into a must-visit destination for international travellers, positioning Newcastle as a true gateway to Australia.
The path to international expansion
Newcastle Airport CEO, Dr Peter Cock, is confident that the terminal expansion will attract international airlines and visitors.
“We understand where people want to fly and are working hard to confirm new routes with several key airline partners,” he said.
“Initiatives like the Aviation Attraction Fund are critical to supporting our live negotiations.”
The Aviation Attraction Fund will provide two years of financial support for new airline routes, offering critical backing as Newcastle enters competitive negotiations with airlines across Australia and globally. This gives the airport a level playing field in attracting new carriers.
The new terminal will enhance both domestic and international capacity, improving the overall passenger experience. Once completed, the facility will include state-of-the-art border processing systems, making Newcastle a convenient and appealing option for international travellers. The airport aims to serve destinations like New Zealand and Singapore with the potential for daily international flights.
Community and business benefits
The $250 million redevelopment, partially funded by a $55 million federal grant, marks a significant milestone for Newcastle Airport and the broader community. The upgrade promises not only enhanced travel options but also substantial economic and employment growth.
Over the next 20 years, the project is expected to create 4,400 jobs and significantly boost the region’s gross regional product (GRP). This is welcome news for the Hunter community, which has already started to prepare for the influx of international visitors.
“Through this MoU, Destination NSW will collaborate with Newcastle Airport with the objective of utilising aviation to bring holistic economic benefits to NSW,” Destination NSW CEO, Steve Cox said.
“We are committed to working with the Hunter community to maximise this once-in-a-generation opportunity.”
The region has already attracted major conferences, including the 2024 Australian Society of Travel Writers Conference and the 2025 Pacific Airports Roundtable Conference. These events will help raise the Hunter’s profile and reinforce Newcastle’s growing importance on the global stage.
What this means for travel professionals
For travel professionals, Newcastle’s international terminal expansion opens up new opportunities. As the airport secures more international routes, travel agents and tour operators will have access to a broader range of travel packages.
The potential for international flights to and from Newcastle presents an exciting proposition for travellers who want to avoid the busy Sydney Airport. With Newcastle positioning itself as a global gateway, this could also lead to new collaborations between local businesses and international tour operators.
In addition, the upgraded terminal will provide a more streamlined travel experience, with modern facilities to accommodate increased passenger numbers and ensure smoother transitions for both domestic and international flights.
