Air travel is set to reach new heights this Christmas with Newcastle Airport expecting a busy holiday season.
An additional 5,000 or 10% of airline seats are available in December to help cater for the expected increase in passenger numbers.
With direct flights to 13 destinations including popular holiday hot spots the Whitsundays, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Melbourne and Adelaide, Newcastle Airport is the better alternative to big city airports these holidays.
Newcastle Airport CEO Dr Peter Cock said the airport is ready to welcome passengers for a busy and exciting holiday period.
“We couldn’t be happier knowing Newcastle Airport is helping people connect with family and friends and feel the joy of travel during the summer holidays.”
Newcastle Airport Executive General Manager of Aviation Shane de Wit said extra steps have been taken to ensure traveling through Newcastle Airport is easy.
“Our region has consistently supported the airport, so we’re taking extra steps to ensure we deliver the airport experience our region deserves during this busy time,” Mr de Wit said.
“We have five different car parks to suit all kinds of budgets and have some great summer holiday specials for people planning an extended holiday. Our Long Stay Saver car park is an affordable option, and we are offering 7 days for $100 or 14 days for $104 when you pre-book your parking online.
“Our new online booking platform, along with a sophisticated license plate recognition system, has streamlined the parking process for all our car parks, providing touch free convenience and efficiency for our passengers. Make sure you book online for the best deals.
“Customers dropping off or collecting family and friends can park and wait for free for up to two hours in our Long Stay Saver car park. It’s a great way to avoid driving round and round the loop road. Once your person has collected their bags from the baggage carousel, they can send you a text message to advise they are ready for pick-up.
“We will have additional staff on board at check-in and security, making our customer’s journey through our terminal as seamless as possible - this includes our friendly volunteer Ambassadors who are there to welcome you to our airport and help answer any questions.”
Mr de Wit recommends passengers plan ahead, arrive at the airport 1.5 hours before their flight departs and practice patience to assist with a smooth start to the festive season.
“Similar to previous school holiday periods, we’re encouraging passengers to allow plenty of time and follow recommendations from their airline. This will allow everyone to get through check-in and security and start their holiday sooner in our relaxing departures lounge.
“There will be free kids’ activities in departures to keep the little ones busy so you can enjoy a drink or a bite to eat. You can place your order from your table using the handy Mr Yum App or grab a last-minute gift from one of our retail outlets,” he said.
Dr Cock noted it’s been a busy year, and everyone deserves to begin their Christmas holiday experience from the moment they arrive at the airport.
“Whether you’re departing on a trip or picking up guests, our team will be there to welcome you with plenty of local hospitality. Please be kind to your fellow travellers and airport employees so everyone can get on their way as quickly and safely as possible,” Dr Cock said.
“Finally, we’d like to thank our community for their support over the past 12 months. From everyone at Newcastle Airport, we wish you and your family a happy holiday season and look forward to serving you again in 2024 as we continue to strive to be the airport the region deserves.”
Newcastle Airport connects to 13 domestic destinations, with more exciting destinations on the horizon in 2024.
Ends.