School holidays off to a flying start at Newcastle Airport

Local holidaymakers are preparing to spread their wings as airline travel ramps up again for the July NSW school holidays.

Newcastle Airport is the easy alternative to big city airports these holidays with more flights more often to popular destinations including Cairns, Adelaide, Brisbane, the Gold Coast and Melbourne.

Newcastle Airport CEO Dr Peter Cock said the next two weeks will be busier than usual with up to 65,000 travellers expected to pass through Newcastle Airport during the school holiday period.

“Airline travel is well and truly back on the agenda these school holidays, so we are taking steps to ensure we deliver the airport experience our region deserves during this busy time.

“With an influx of passengers expected over the next two weeks, we’ll be doing everything we can to make sure our customers’ journey is stress-free from the moment they arrive at Newcastle Airport.

“We have five convenient car parks with over 2,300 spaces all within a ten-minute walk of the terminal. With seven days of parking for just $100, our long stay saver car park is an affordable option for families.

“Our enhanced security screening equipment saves time, and both lanes will be open with extra resources on hand to assist where needed during the holidays.

“We will also have additional staff on board to make our customers’ journey through our terminal as seamless as possible. Keep an eye out for our wonderful Ambassadors’ friendly faces and teal jackets – they’re here to help answer questions and make the journey that little less stressful,” said Dr Cock.

The Newcastle Airport CEO recommends passengers check with their airline and arrive as early as possible.

“Following two years of restrictions and border closures, the July school holidays may be the first time many people from our region have travelled through the airport in a while.

“Travelling – especially with kids – can be stressful, so we’re encouraging everyone to arrive as early as their airline recommends. The key message for the upcoming peak travel period is to plan ahead and practice patience.

“This will allow everyone to get through check-in and security, and start their holiday in our relaxing departures lounge with lots of comfortable seating and local food and beverage options.

“We are thrilled to see the people of our region travelling once again, and we’re committed to getting everyone on their way as quickly and safely as possible.”

Newcastle Airport will connect the region to two more popular Queensland destinations later this year, with direct flights to the Sunshine Coast and the Whitsunday Coast when new low-cost carrier Bonza takes to the skies.