Marking one of the biggest infrastructure moments for the Hunter Region and NSW, Newcastle Airport last night officially opened its new international terminal.
Around 300 guests including dignitaries, industry leaders and community representatives proudly gathered to celebrate the expanded terminal which opens the Hunter to the world, enhances international connectivity and stands as a symbol of the region’s growth, ambition and capability.
The terminal’s footprint has been expanded by 50%, opening the Hunter Region to the world and making international travel from Newcastle easier and more accessible.
“We commenced direct flights to Perth earlier this month, have direct flights to Bali commencing on the 21st of October and are working on more exciting routes for our region,” enthused airport CEO, Linc Horton.
“Our region’s new international terminal is a legacy asset built today for the decades to come; for our shareholder councils, Port Stephens and City of Newcastle, for our communities, for the State of New South Wales and for the Federal Government whose investment in us is an investment in our region’s future.
“This terminal is a physical representation of our commitment to delivering the airport our region deserves connecting the people of the Hunter to the world and creating new pathways for trade, tourism and economic development.”
The completed terminal is expected to deliver A$12.7 billion in economic benefit over the next 20 years and more than 4,000 jobs.
Newcastle Airport was recognised for its significant regional impact and leadership across the Hunter at this month’s 2025 Business Hunter Awards, taking home four major accolades: Business of the Year, Contribution to the Region, Excellence in Sustainability and Outstanding Employee.
A key sustainability milestone was becoming the first airport in Australia to achieve Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) Level 4+, placing Newcastle Airport in the top 12% of airports worldwide for carbon management.
The airport also reached Net Zero Scope 1 and 2 emissions in 2024, six years ahead of target, through a 100% renewable energy supply, certified carbon offsets, EV and solar investment and achieving a 5-Star Green Star ‘Designed’ assessment rating for the new terminal.
Newcastle Airport chair, Jude Munro, revealed that the Board’s vision from the outset was to create an airport that reflects the region’s future potential and delivers lasting value.
“This terminal represents the long-term vision and commitment of our Board to create infrastructure that supports Government objectives, delivers for today and positions the region for decades of growth,” she noted.
“The strategic decisions made in partnership with our shareholders and stakeholders have laid the foundation for a truly connected, resilient and globally-minded region.
“These awards honour the people who’ve brought this project to life, from the region who advocated for our new terminal, the Federal Government who supported our region’s ambitions, to our dedicated team committed to delivering an airport experience that embodies the heart and identity of the Hunter, while enabling our region to grow, lead in sustainability and connect with the world.”
The new terminal expands the facility to eight gates, introduces an aerobridge for the first time and more than doubles the airport’s passenger capacity during peak periods. It has been designed to accommodate larger international aircraft, opening the way for future services to major global hubs.
In 2019, in just one example, almost half a million people from the region – the equivalent of more than two long haul flights every day – travelled to and from Europe, demonstrating strong existing demand for international services.
Newcastle Airport currently serves around 1.3 million passengers each year, but this is expected to rise to at least 2.5mppa by 2036.