newy.com.au – Newcastle Airport has been named Airport of the Year at the 2026 Australian Aviation Awards after opening its international terminal and expanding its domestic and overseas route network.
The Hunter airport was selected ahead of finalists Launceston Airport, Mackay Airport, Melbourne Airport and Port Hedland International Airport.
Its award submission focused on the airport’s readiness for international operations, terminal design, carbon reduction measures and the expansion’s expected contribution to regional jobs and economic activity.
Newcastle Airport chief executive Linc Horton said the airport had evolved from a regional facility into an international gateway during a year that included the terminal project and new routes.
“Over the past year we have successfully delivered our international terminal, introduced key domestic and international routes for our region and continued building the partnerships that are helping unlock tourism, trade, investment and jobs for the Hunter,” Mr Horton said.
He said the expansion had been completed while the airport continued its day-to-day operations.
Airport chair Samantha Martin-Williams credited staff, airlines, governments and the Hunter community for supporting the expansion.
“We are incredibly proud to represent the Hunter on the national stage and congratulate our fellow finalists, who continue to make an important contribution to Australia’s aviation industry,” she said.
Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said the award recognised the airport’s rapid expansion and growing role in connecting the region with domestic and international destinations.
“This is far more than a terminal and a runway. It is the Hunter’s gateway to new jobs, more visitors, greater investment and opportunities that once seemed out of reach,” Ms Catley said.
The award was announced after two Newcastle Airport executives took part in the Australian Aviation Summit. Executive general manager of aviation Andrew Warrender joined a panel on aviation risk and security, while executive general manager of people and communications Burcak Sezer spoke about carbon reduction and sustainable airport operations.
